Behavioral treatment of a persistent post-traumatic startle response

Abstract

Progressive-muscle and autogenic-type relaxation training exercises and a behavioral rehearsal procedure were employed in the treatment of a 32-yr-old woman with a post-traumatic startle response and anxiety. The involuntary startle response developed after an automobile accident and consisted of pronounced motoric movements that occured while driving. After five sessions of treatment, startle responses ceased and anxiety while driving diminished. Results were fully maintained at 1-, 4-and 6-month follow-ups.