Qualitative Analysis for the Influences of Emotion Freedom Techniques (EFT) Group Treatment Program for Hwa-Byung Patients

Objectives: The objective of this study is to examine the effects of Emotion Freedom Techniques (EFT) group treatment program for Hwa-byung patients. Methods: Thirteen Hwa-byung patients have participated in the four weeks program of EFT group treatment and the program was executed once a week, for about one hour. After every session, the participants performed EFT by themselves in order to control their symptoms. Four weeks after the program ended, we interviewed the participants by using the semi-structured interview method to observe changes of Hwa-byung. All the data collected was summarized through the qualitative analysis method. Results: Results showed effects of the EFT group treatment program, with regards to the physical, cognitive and emotional aspects. Most of the participants experienced reliefs of Hwa-byung symptoms like chest tightness, hot flashes, insomnia and so on. Their ability to cope with stress improved and their re-experiences of past memories decreased. And their distorted self-images were also restored. Lastly, there was a decrease in negative emotions and an increase in positive emotions experienced by the participants. The participants could control their symptoms by performing self-enforcement. In addition, regarding the form of group therapy, the treatment was effective as it helped the participants to feel solidarity and social support. Conclusions: The EFT group treatment program can relieve the physical, cognitive and emotional symptoms of Hwa-byung. This program can be applied to the psychotherapy of Hwa-byung.