This study investigates the influence of biofeedback on self-regulation and performance. We employed a directed non-specific difference hypothesis with an a priori approach. The between-subject design featured biofeedback as independent variable and performance, operationalized by points gain in a game setup, as dependent variable.

Heart rate variability (HRV) was measured as an indicator of workload while participants engaged in a specially designed computer game featuring a continuous control task. Workload was periodically increased by temporarily adding mini-games. When a participant’s HRV fell below an individually predetermined threshold, the “biofeedback mode” was activated, consisting of a visually and aurally intensified interface in order reflect the user’s HRV response to the workload. The game reverted to normal mode once HRV increased.

The participants were divided into three groups. The first group was informed about the biofeedback mode and was encouraged to use stress-reduction strategies during its activation. The mode, however, was statically triggered at fixed intervals regardless of HRV measurements. The experimental group experienced activation of the mode based on real-time HRV measurements. The control group was exposed to the same behaviour as the experimental group, without being informed about the biofeedback mode or its purpose.

Statistical analysis revealed no significant effect of biofeedback on overall performance. However, performance during biofeedback phases significantly decreased for both the first and the experimental group, an effect not observed in the control group. This may indicate that confronting a user with their – even just supposed - overload might have a negative effect on performance.