Treating insomnia with relaxation and desensitization in a group setting by an automated approach

Insomniac Ss averaging sleep onset times of 65 min were exposed to group relaxation or group desensitization treatments via automated tape recorded directions for a 4-week period. Both experimental groups exhibited significant improvement (p<0·005) while two control groups (poor sleepers and normal sleepers) showed no changes. Desensitization treatment was also associated with changes in five personality factors of Cattell's 16 PF in the direction of greater emotional self-confidence. Follow-up data 12 months later showed significant retention of short-term gains for both groups. Clinically, it appears feasible to make use of both techniques by a group automated approach as safe alternatives to drugs and electro-sleep methods, which in the past have been frequently associated with undesirable side effects.