Special Edition: The effects of the Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music (GIM) on interpersonal problems, sense of coherence, and salivary Immunogloblin A of adults in chemical dependency treatment

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music (GIM) on interpersonal problems, coping measures and immune function in 19 adults in chemical dependency treatment for an average of 43 days. Psychological measures included the Inventory of Interpersonal Problems Short Circumplex Form (IIP-SC), the Sense of Coherence Scale (SOC) and physiological measure included salivary immunoglobulin A. Pre-test measures were collected at the initial interview session and post-tests at the final BMGIM session. Experimental subjects received one GIM session a week during their treatment. Results show significant decrease on the domineering, cold, and non-assertive subscales of the IIP-SC and on the manageability subscale of the SOC scale. The physiological measure of sIgA did not show a significant increase. The BMGIM appears to be effective in addressing issues underlying substance abuse, in addition showing a positive impact on physical health.