Biologic feedback and cardiovascular disease

An open system model is proposed that integrates the stress concepts of physiology and psychology and focuses on the role of external and internal stressors in initiating and maintaining a non-adaptive chronic disease state. A rationale for the utilization of biologic feedback techniques to attain more adaptive biologic response patterns is presented. Particular importance is placed on the cognitive aspects of the “learning climate” and the role of relaxation training. The clinical application of biologic feedback in the treatment of chronic cardiovascular disease is de scribed, and data are presented to support the hypothesis that chronic stress response patterns can be altered.