An exploratory study of state-trait anxiety as a function of automated relaxation training,desired changes and drinking behavior

Fifty-two VA domiciliary residents were given four sessions of tape-recorded relaxation training in small groups. The State-Trait Anxiety Scale was administered before the first and last training sessions. The experimental group's mean state anxiety decreased from Test I to Test II, but a control group's mean increased (p<0.025). Both groups decreased in trait anxiety over time (p<0.001). A significant effect within the experimental group was that 9 residents with disciplinary problems due to intoxication during the training period increased in mean state anxiety, while the remainder of the group decreased. Experimental Ss who initially desired many trait changes decreased mean trait anxiety more from Test I to Test II than did the rest of the experimental group (p<0.025).