The Efficacy of Relaxation Training with Year 12 Students

Abstract

This study explored the potential benefits of an eight-week relaxation training program for students in their final year of high school. The relaxation program was structured around the concept of applied relaxation, consisting of a blend of progressive muscle relaxation, cue-controlled, and rapid relaxation, whilst also incorporating a cognitive coping strategies component, and goal-directed visualisation. Treatment participants were compared with control group members on measures of anxiety, stress, and locus of control. Overall, the results support the efficacy of a school-based relaxation training program in reducing student stress and anxiety levels, but not on influencing locus of control orientation towards internality. Furthermore the results of this project indicate that it is possible to incorporate relaxation training within a preventative framework as part of the regular school curriculum.