Clinical Report: Exploring the Impact of Breathing Patterns on Anxiety
Overview
This study investigates the relationships between dysfunctional breathing, music performance anxiety (MPA), and attentional control in bassoon players. Findings indicate that dysfunctional breathing is positively correlated with performance anxiety and negatively correlated with attentional control.
Background
Music performance anxiety (MPA) is a significant issue affecting musicians, with prevalence rates varying widely among professionals and students. Wind instrumentalists, particularly bassoon players, face unique respiratory challenges that may exacerbate anxiety symptoms.
Data Highlights
Measure
Correlation
Significance
Dysfunctional Breathing and Performance Anxiety
r = 0.52
p < 0.001
Dysfunctional Breathing and Attentional Control
r = -0.39
p < 0.001
Variance Explained by Dysfunctional Breathing
23.1%
N/A
Indirect Effect of Performance Anxiety
ab = -0.19
95% CI [-0.30, -0.10]
Key Findings
Dysfunctional breathing is positively associated with performance anxiety (r = 0.52, p < 0.001).
Dysfunctional breathing is negatively associated with attentional control (r = -0.39, p < 0.001).
Dysfunctional breathing explains 23.1% of the variance in performance anxiety beyond demographic factors.
Performance anxiety partially mediates the relationship between dysfunctional breathing and attentional control.
Professional bassoon players exhibit lower dysfunctional breathing scores and higher attentional control compared to amateurs.
Performance anxiety levels did not significantly differ between professional and amateur players (p = 0.448).
Clinical Implications
The findings indicate a relationship between dysfunctional breathing patterns and music performance anxiety in bassoon players.
Conclusion
This study highlights the significant relationships between breathing patterns, anxiety, and cognitive function in bassoon musicians.
