Which of the following scenarios most accurately describes biofeedback?

• A. A person talks to a therapist about their feelings of stress.
• B. A person exercises regularly to improve their physical health.
• C. A person takes medication to reduce symptoms of anxiety.
• D. A person uses electronic sensors to monitor their heart rate and learns to control it through relaxation techniques.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of biofeedback. Biofeedback is a technique that involves using electronic monitoring devices to provide real-time information about physiological functions, such as heart rate, muscle tension, or skin temperature.
2. Step 2: Recognize that the key feature of biofeedback is the use of electronic sensors to measure bodily processes that are typically automatic and not consciously controlled.
3. Step 3: Identify that through biofeedback, individuals learn to gain voluntary control over these physiological functions by observing the feedback and applying techniques like relaxation or breathing exercises.
4. Step 4: Compare the given scenarios to this definition. Talking to a therapist, exercising, or taking medication do not involve direct monitoring and control of physiological signals via electronic devices.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the scenario describing a person using electronic sensors to monitor their heart rate and learning to control it through relaxation techniques best fits the definition of biofeedback.