Relaxation Training Tapes: Preferences and Effects of Gender and Background

Abstract

Relaxation training tapes vary in voice gender and background, but little has been published regarding the preferences and effects of these parameters. Four classes, totalling 40 male and 36 female undergraduates, listened to parts of two commercially available sets of relaxation tapes. Both sets offered progressive relaxation and autogenic training in a choice of a male or a female voice. One set also provided a musical and environmental background. Tape segments were randomly assigned to the classes and balanced for gender and background. Subjects indicated a preference for the female voices. In addition, there was a significant association between sex of subject and voice gender preference, with males preferring female voices and females preferring male voices. However, the choices of the "best" tapes and actual ratings of relaxation indicated no significant voice-gender preferences associations. Preferences for the facilitating effects of the tapes with musical and environmental backgrounds were reflected in significant preferences for tape sets, tape choices, and relaxation ratings. The clinical implications and limitations of these findings were discussed.

Germline risk of clonal haematopoiesis

“…Mutations in CHIP genes involved in the DNA damage response pathway, such as TP53 and PPM1D , are highly enriched following radiation treatment or treatment with a select few cytotoxic chemotherapies 32 , 35 , 69 – 72 . Additionally, CHIP has been associated with significantly increased mortality following transcatheter aortic valve implantation 73 , which is the first indication that CHIP might have an impact on surgical/procedural outcomes. Emerging research suggests that CHIP may impact patient outcomes following HSC transplantation (HSCT).…”

The effects of voice qualities in mindfulness meditation apps on enjoyment, relaxation state, and perceived usefulness.

“…Notably, users prefer voices they consider appropriate in light of other source cues: for instance, preference for a human voice or a robotic voice depends on the visual appearance of the entity (Gong & Nass, 2007). In the absence of accompanying visuals, users will rely on characteristics of the voice itself, such as tone, to evaluate correspondence with the role or job the voice is enacting in the particular scenario (Nathan et al, 1981). For example, in the context of relaxation tape exercises, calm voices were preferred and rated as more helpful than business-like voices (Morris & Suckerman, 1976).…”

“…Historically, guided meditation is similar to the procedure a therapist might enact. Prior to today's meditation apps, guided meditation tapes were sometimes provided by therapists for use by patients both in and outside of office visits (Nathan et al, 1981). Notably, Nathan et al (1981) found that clients who were asked to rate different voices in recorded meditation tapes generally preferred a female voice over a male voice.…”

“…Prior to today's meditation apps, guided meditation tapes were sometimes provided by therapists for use by patients both in and outside of office visits (Nathan et al, 1981). Notably, Nathan et al (1981) found that clients who were asked to rate different voices in recorded meditation tapes generally preferred a female voice over a male voice. Beyond meditation contexts, additional research suggests the gender of the therapist may matter, with previous studies alternately finding more positive evaluations of female therapists (Hill, 1975) as well as preferences for male therapists (Goldman, 1977).…”