The general consensus from credible sources is that tapping (specifically Emotional Freedom Technique, or EFT tapping) should not be avoided. It is regarded as a safe, evidence-based technique that helps with emotional distress, anxiety, stress relief, and even physical pain. Many clinical studies support the benefits of EFT tapping, showing it to be effective for various mental health concerns. The perception that tapping should be avoided is mostly due to misunderstandings, misinformation, or individual adverse reactions rather than any inherent risk in the technique itself.
However, some reasons people might consider avoiding tapping relate primarily to poor application or specific contexts:
- Using generic tapping scripts without personalized adjustment can fail to address the root causes of a problem and may even trigger distressing emotions without professional support, making it potentially harmful to vulnerable individuals.
- Some individuals find tapping physically or emotionally uncomfortable, leading to negative reactions like panic attacks or overstimulation, indicating that personal sensitivity should be taken into account.
- Tapping should never cause pain; it is intended to be done with gentle pressure. Misuse or misunderstanding could lead to negative experiences.
In summary, tapping itself is generally safe and effective and should not be broadly avoided. Instead, the approach to tapping should be personalized, ideally guided by a knowledgeable practitioner, especially for those with deep or complex emotional issues. The main cautions involve avoiding rigid script use, recognizing individual sensitivities, and ensuring emotional safety during tapping sessions.
