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Cortical Source Analysis of High-Density EEG Recordings in Children
Published on: June 30, 2014
Changes in EEG current sources induced by neurofeedback in learning disabled children. An exploratory study
Thalía Fernández1, Thalía Harmony, Antonio Fernández-Bouzas
1Departamento de Neurobiología Conductual y Cognitiva, Instituto de Neurobiología, Campus UNAM-UAQ, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Boulevard Juriquilla # 3001, Juriquilla, Querétaro, 76230, Mexico. thalia@servidor.unam.mx
Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback
|November 6, 2007
Summary
Neurofeedback (NFB) shows promise for learning disabled (LD) children with high theta/alpha ratios. This EEG-based therapy improved cognitive and behavioral performance, with lasting neurophysiological changes observed two months post-treatment.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pediatrics
- Educational Psychology
Background:
- Learning disabilities (LD) often present with abnormal electroencephalogram (EEG) patterns, specifically elevated theta/alpha ratios.
- Neurofeedback (NFB) is a non-invasive technique that trains individuals to self-regulate brain activity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of NFB on EEG current sources in children with learning disabilities.
- To assess the impact of NFB on behavioral and cognitive performance in this population.
Main Methods:
- Twenty NFB sessions were administered to 11 LD children (Experimental Group) to reduce theta/alpha ratios.
- A control group of five LD children received a placebo treatment.
- EEG current source analysis and behavioral/cognitive assessments were conducted immediately after treatment and two months later.
Main Results:
- The control group showed no significant changes.
- The experimental group exhibited immediate behavioral and cognitive improvements.
- Two months post-NFB, significant changes in EEG current sources were observed, including decreased theta band activity and increased alpha and beta band activity in specific brain regions.
Conclusions:
- NFB may be an effective treatment for LD children with high theta/alpha ratios.
- Observed changes in EEG current sources provide neurophysiological evidence for the observed behavioral and cognitive improvements.
