Inventory of the 56 randomised controlled trials of Clinical EFT identified in the 2022 Stapleton et al. systematic review (Frontiers in Psychology). Covers anxiety, depression, PTSD, stress, weight loss, food cravings, chronic pain, and physical performance.
The 56-RCT figure surprises most people. The evidence base for EFT is real but the field has methodological limitations: many studies are small (n under 100), blinding is difficult, and some studies have flaws in design that mainstream psychology research has not fully accepted.
This dataset lists each RCT with its primary outcome, sample size, comparison condition, effect size where reported, and methodological notes. It is the most accessible single inventory of the EFT clinical evidence base.
| Column | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| study_label | string | Author, year identifier |
| condition | string | Clinical condition or outcome (anxiety, depression, PTSD, etc.) |
| sample_size | integer | Total participants in study |
| comparison | string | Comparison condition (waitlist, supportive interview, CBT, no treatment) |
| session_count | integer | Number of EFT sessions in protocol |
| effect_size_d | number | Cohen's d effect size where reported |
| methodological_notes | string | Brief notes on study quality, blinding, randomisation |
Effect sizes vary in measurement and reporting standards across the original studies. Where effect sizes are not reported, the field is left blank rather than estimated.
EFT tapping has 56 randomised controlled trials with moderate-to-large effect sizes for anxiety. Reiki shows significant impact on anxiety in a 2024 meta-analysis covering 824 patients across 13 studies.
Glossophobia affects 25% of adults. Surface coping (deep breaths, picture them naked) addresses symptoms not causes. CBT and exposure work but slowly. EFT addresses the somatic charge. Consciousness coaching addresses the underlying belief, often "I am not significant" or "I am not worthy."