The experiences of basic body awareness therapy in patients with schizophrenia

Summary 

Background

Basic Body Awareness Therapy (BBAT) is a physiotherapeutic treatment method that is commonly used in Scandinavian mental health services. However, for patients with schizophrenia, there are few studies that verify the effectiveness of BBAT, or explain which dysfunctions or disabilities BBAT has an effect on in this group of patients. The aim of the present study was thus to describe patients’ experiences of BBAT, focusing on perceived main treatment effects. The areas of perceived effects are to be investigated in future research.

Method

In a qualitative study, eight patients with schizophrenia were interviewed. The interview transcriptions were analysed with content analysis methodology.

Result

Patients with schizophrenia report positive treatment effects of physiotherapy with BBAT. Four main categories were identified: affect regulation, body awareness and self-esteem, effects described in a social context and effects on the ability to think. These should be targeted in a future randomized and controlled study.

Keywords: Physiotherapy, Affect regulation, Self-esteem, Cognitive function, Rehabilitation