Examining biofeedback with sexual offenders with a learning disability
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Examining the effectiveness of biofeedback in improving emotional regulation skills in adult sexual offenders with a learning disability
IRAS ID
202836
Contact name
Emma Gray
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Birmingham
ISRCTN Number
ISRCTN16167470
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 6 months, 1 days
Research summary
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a biofeedback computer programme in improving emotional regulation abilities in adult sexual offenders with a learning disability.This research would expand the literature on the treatment of this group.\n \nThe role of emotional dysregulation is considered with regard to sexual offending, and is highlighted within theoretical models.\n\nIncreasing consideration is being given to the role of mindfulness, and in turn biofeedback, as an intervention for a variety of disorders. Biofeedback is described as an intervention to teach individuals how to control automatic bodily reactions and functions, including control of heart rate (Gartha, 1976). Biofeedback is commonly achieved using computer based programmes that provide feedback on particular physiological processes through appropriate sensors, ie. measuring heart rate through sensors attached to the fingers or the ear lobe.\n\nDucharme et al. (2012) used a video game to teach emotional regulation skills and improve self-regulation. This intervention focused on one paediatric female, she was noted to be able to retain the skills taught between sessions, and be able to apply these to real-life situations. This would suggest some utility in biofeedback programmes in teaching clients to emotionally self-regulate.\n\nGillespie, Mitchell, Fisher and Beech (2012) consider the role of mindfulness and biofeedback in the treatment of emotional dysregulation in sexual offenders. Gillespie et al. (2012) propose that the use of controlled breathing techniques, as are employed during biofeedback, encourage a state of mindfulness. This in turn results in improved emotional regulation abilities. Gillespie et al. (2012) highlight the use of controlled breathing in addressing two treatment needs of sexual offenders; socio-affective functioning and self-management. \n\nAt present sexual offenders generally are underrepresented in the mindfulness literature. However increasing consideration is being given to the benefits of mindfulness, and in turn biofeedback, with this offender population.\n\nThe participants will be males aged between 18 and 65, with a history of sexual offending and a diagnosed learning disability. Participants will be recruited from a private healthcare low-secure unit for adults with a learning disability and sexual offending behaviour. The biofeedback intervention will be delivered on a 1:1 basis on eight occasions over a period of four weeks.
REC name
East of England - Essex Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/EE/0501
Date of REC Opinion
8 Mar 2017
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion