Psychophysiological analysis of eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing treatment

Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a new controversial treatment that claims to resolve long-standing traumatic memories within few treatment sessions. Evidence based data indicate that EMDR markedly reduces anxiety associated with a traumatic memory already at the first session, and behavioural changes tend to be maintained. In spite of the positive results, critical reviews have outlined some methodological biases in the EMDR previous studies, such as the lacking of a pre and post treatment standardised assessments, lacking of standardised inclusion criteria, poor study design. In the present study we have examined three subjects with PTSD, before and after EMDR therapy. Clinical interviews, psychological tests and self-reports have been administered. Biofeedback measures of electromyographic muscle tension, body temperature, heart rate and skin potential reaction have been used as well. An independent investigator was responsible for the collection of final data. The results showed an interesting trend after treatment compared to baseline.

Journal

English

Roberto Guzzi
Rossella Bossa
Spiridione Masaraki

Guzzi, R., Bossa, R., & Masaraki, S. (2003). Psychophysiological analysis of eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing treatment. Homeostasis in Health and Disease, 42(3), 129-131