A Review of Neurofeedback Studies

뉴로피드백의 최신 연구 동향

Background: Neurofeedback is an electroencephalographic biofeedback technique for training individuals to alter their brain activity via operant conditioning. Also neurofeedback is a form of behavioural training aimed at developing skills for brain activity. Within the past decade, several neurofeedback studies have been published that tend to overcome the methodological shortcomings of earlier studies. This research describes the methodical basis of neurofeedback and reviews the evidence base for its clinical efficacy and effectiveness in attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Methods: In neurofeedback training, self-regulation of specific aspects of electrical brain activity is acquired by means of immediate feedback and positive reinforcement. In frequency training, activity in different EEG frequency bands has to be decreased or increased. Slow cortical potentials (SCPs) training is focused on the regulation of cortical excitability. Results: Neurofeedback studies revealed training-specific effects on, for example, attention and memory processes and performance improvements in real-life conditions, in healthy subjects as well as in patients. In several studies it was shown that ADHD symptomatology was reduced after frequency training or SCP(Slow cortical potentials) training. Moreover a decrease of impulsivity errors and an increase of the contingent negative variation. Conclusions: This research provides evidence for both positive behavioural and specific neurophysiological effects of neurofeedback training. Also there is growing evidence for neurofeedback as a valuable module in neuropsychiatric disorders. Further, controlled studies are warranted.