Neurofeedback treatment of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
N Pop-Jordanova1, S Markovska-Simoska, T Zorcec
1Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Skopje, R. Macedonia.
Insights
EEG biofeedback (neurofeedback) effectively treats attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. This non-invasive therapy improves EEG patterns, cognitive function, and social adaptability, offering a promising treatment option.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychophysiology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Biofeedback is a computer-based technique for assessing and treating psychophysiological disorders, particularly stress-related conditions.
- EEG biofeedback, also known as neurofeedback, is explored for its application in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess and discuss the application of EEG biofeedback (neurofeedback) in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD.
- To evaluate the efficacy of neurofeedback training in children with ADHD.
Main Methods:
- 12 children diagnosed with ADHD (ICD-10 criteria) participated.
- Assessments included WISC-R, Q-EEG, neurofeedback, and Conner's questionnaires.
- A five-month neurofeedback program was conducted twice weekly using Biograph/ProComp 2.0.
Main Results:
- EEG patterns improved, showing increased beta (16-20 Hz) and decreased theta (4-8 Hz) activity.
- Significant improvements were observed in WISC-R scores, academic performance, social adaptability, and self-esteem.
Conclusions:
- EEG biofeedback operant conditioning is a viable, non-invasive, and cost-effective treatment for ADHD in children.
- Optimal outcomes are associated with older children, and family/teacher cooperation is vital for success.
Background:
Biofeedback is a modern computer-related technique used for assessment and therapy of many psychophysiological disorders, especially stress-related ones. After a short overview of the basic concepts of biofeedback, in this study the application of EEG biofeedback (neurofeedback) in the assessment of and therapy for attention deficit hyperactivity disorders (ADHD) is presented and discussed.
Methods:
The study comprised 12 children diagnosed as ADHD, selected according to ICD-10, and assessed by WISC-R, Q-EEG, neurofeedback and Conner's questionnaire for parents and teachers. The mean age was 9.5 years (7 to 13), both sexes. Each of them participated in a five-month programme of neurofeedback training, performed two times weekly with Biograph/ProComp 2.0 protocols.
Results:
Post-treatment results showed an improved EEG pattern expressed in increased 16-20 Hz (beta) activity and decreased 4-8 Hz (theta) activity. In parallel, higher scores on WISC-R, better school notes and improved social adaptability and self-esteem were obtained.
Conclusions:
EEG biofeedback operant conditioning is a good choice for treatment of ADHD children. The method is non-invasive and has high cost-benefit. Optimal results are obtained in children of higher age. Cooperation with family members and teachers is crucial.
