Assessment of Guided Affective Imagery: Methods for Extracting Quantitative and Categorical Variables from Imagery Sequences

Abstract

There are many methods available for quantifying and categorizing the stream of images reported by participants and clients in guided imagery. Projective methods, methods for assessing individual differences in imagery, and methods developed for the analysis of dreams and literature can be adapted for the study of guided imagery; and, in addition, researchers have developed scales for characterizing the images encountered specifically in Guided Affective Imagery. These have been shown to possess high interrater reliability. A GAI Rating Instrument is described, along with the results of its application in a preliminary investigation. Interrater reliabilities of selected scales, which were designed to assess changes in imagery, including responses to experimental cues, range from good to workable. Dreamlike transformations of waking dreams are shown to be common and to be frequently spontaneous, whereas increases in imaginal detail occur most often in response to the guide's interventions.