Biofeedback EEG in the prevention of compulsive work-related behaviors and reduction of their negative consequences: Preliminary results and barriers to providing support

Opublikowane w Journal of Behavioral Addictions  (140 pkt. wg. MEiN)

Autorzy: Paweł Atroszko, Natalia Woropay-Hordziejewicz, Aleksandra Buźniak, Aleksandra Wybrańska, Anna Brykała, Klaudia Bochniarz, Piotr Luszuk, Krzysztof Jankowski, Julia Mackiewicz, Aleksandra Cupta, Gabriela Szczepańska

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Streszczenie:

The study aimed to examine the effectiveness of alpha wave relaxation training using Biofeedback EEG for reducing compulsive work-related behaviors, associated with difficulties in relaxing, and their negative consequences and investigate the potential barriers to providing support. Biofeedback EEG is effective in developing the ability to relax and reduce stress. Similar studies among people addicted to substances showed an anxiety reduction and decreased consumption.

Methods: The invitations to the screening surveys were sent to employees via employers and students via universities in Tricity in Poland. Individuals that scored above the established cut-off score on Bergen Work Addiction Scale or Bergen Study Addiction Scale received feedback with information about the possibility of participating in a free EEG-Biofeedback relaxation training.

Results: The preliminary results showed that 189 of 705 (27%) of the administration staff at one of the employers who all received invitation emails completed the survey. Of them, 53 (28%) had results above the cut-off score for work addiction, with 23 (43%) having the highest possible score on burnout and 47 (89%) having a very high score on burnout. However, only one person (> 2%) applied for the free training sessions. Results of the EEG-Biofeedback sessions will be available in the mid-2023.

Conclusions: Individuals at risk or addicted to work rarely seek help even when it is easily available and free. Compulsive overworking and its negative consequences need wider recognition to enable support-seeking among those affected. Early prevention programs constitute feasible cost/effective solutions, overcoming barriers typical for adult working populations.

Słowa kluczowe: biofeedback, workaholism, barriers, stress, relaxation, work addiction

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