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Increasing individual upper alpha power by neurofeedback improves cognitive performance in human subjects
Simon Hanslmayr1, Paul Sauseng, Michael Doppelmayr
1Department of Physiological Psychology, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria.
Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback
|May 14, 2005
Summary
Neurofeedback training (NFT) that increases upper alpha brainwaves and decreases theta waves can enhance cognitive performance. Successful NFT responders showed improved mental rotation task results, correlating with increased alpha power.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Psychology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Neurofeedback training (NFT) is a technique used to modulate brain activity.
- Previous research suggests a link between specific brainwave patterns and cognitive functions.
- The role of upper alpha and theta power in cognitive performance requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if neurofeedback training (NFT) can enhance cognitive performance by modulating brainwave activity.
- To investigate the relationship between changes in upper alpha and theta power and performance on a mental rotation task.
- To examine EEG changes in responders following NFT.
Main Methods:
- Participants underwent neurofeedback training (NFT) aimed at increasing upper alpha and decreasing theta power.
- Cognitive performance was assessed using a mental rotation task before and after NFT.
- Electroencephalography (EEG) was used to measure brainwave power, particularly upper alpha power in a reference interval.
Main Results:
- Only participants who successfully increased their upper alpha power (responders) showed improved performance on the mental rotation task after NFT.
- The degree of NFT-induced increase in upper alpha power positively correlated with cognitive performance improvement.
- NFT responders exhibited a significant increase in reference upper alpha power preceding the task.
Conclusions:
- Neurofeedback training targeting upper alpha and theta power can enhance cognitive performance, specifically in tasks like mental rotation.
- Increased upper alpha power, particularly in a prestimulus interval, is associated with better cognitive performance.
- Individual differences in response to NFT influence its effectiveness in improving cognitive abilities.