Author Type

Graduate Student

Date of Award

1988

Document Type

Thesis

Publication Status

Version of Record

Submission Date

October 2026

Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]

Ziegler, Edward

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether a relationship exists between the mental imagery therapy and the condition of seriously ill patients. The subjective rating by both the patients and their physicians were analyzed after employing mental imagery for three months. Data were obtained from 42 subjects, age 31 to 79 years, all suffering from life threatening diseases, such as cancer, heart disease, kidney failure, and vascular difficulties. The patients were trained in the use of mental imagery and were re-interviewed after three months. Identical questionnaires were re-submitted to both patients and physicians to determine any changes in their condition. A paired sample t-test was employed to measure the difference statistically, using the self-ratings of the patients, as well as the ratings by their physicians. The major hypotheses tested were: (1) There is no significant difference in the patients' condition as perceived by themselves as well as by their physicians after the use of mental imagery for three months. (2) There is no significant difference in the patients' attitude as perceived by themselves as well as by their physicians after the use of mental imagery for three months. (3) There is no significant difference in pain-endurance in the patients as rated by themselves as well as by their physicians after the use of mental imagery for three months. The above null-hypotheses were rejected since the t-value exceeded the critical value of t probability level of.05, at 35 degrees of freedom. Other data presented indicated that such variables as diet, exercise, medication and vitamins, did not result in statistically significant change. This leads to the conclusion that mental imagery alone was responsible for improving the condition and attitude of the subjects. Major recommendations. (1) Replication of the present study with larger samples in order to lend more authority to the positive outcome, and verify the results. (2) Similar studies to investigate whether mental imagery could become an effective agent in the fight against AIDS. (3) A study to determine if mental imagery could become a tool for maintaining good health, preventing debilitating illnesses, so focusing on wellness as well as healing.

Extent

113 p.

Comments

Thesis (Ed.D.)--Florida Atlantic University, 1988.|College of Education|FAU Electronic Theses and Dissertations Collection|Thesis (Ed.D.)--Florida Atlantic University, 1988.

Identifier

FADT11923

Format

pdf

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