Abstract
A single group outcome study of treatment for borderline hypertension was performed. 8 male college students, with elevated blood pressure, were identified through campus-wide, blood-pressure screening and were referred by the Health Center for a treatment program of general relaxation and biofeedback-induced relaxation. 4 undergraduate psychology majors conducted training sessions three times per week for each subject. On the basis of increases in finger temperature, it was concluded that relaxation was produced. Reductions in systolic pressure of 10 to 15 mm Hg were obtained in as few as 14 sessions, although greater reductions occurred with more training sessions. A follow-up, 5 mo. later, indicated the need to maintain the relaxation program for a longer duration. Suggestions were made for implementing this treatment program at other colleges and universities.
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