The Effect of Videotape Feedback on the Self-Assessments of Psychiatric Patients

Abstract

The use of feedback techniques as therapeutic tools has increased quite considerably during the last decade (Berger, 1970). Techniques such as videotape and tape recorder playback have been used with a wide rage of patients, and to secure effects such as ‘overcoming resistance’, ‘evoking insight’, ‘increasing motivation for psychotherapy’ and ‘shocking alcoholics back to reality’. The general strategy has involved making a recording of the patient's behaviour, or a sample of therapeutic interaction; the recording is then played back to the participants and often used as a basis for discussion and further treatment. In spite of the enthusiasm about the value of these techniques, empirical and scientific evidence for their efficacy is almost entirely absent (Bailey and Sowder, 1970).