Neurofeedback in Psychological Practice.

Abstract

Advances in technology occasionally allow for innovations in the practice of psychology. Neurofeedback is one such modality; in it, individuals learn to change patterns of brain waves through operant conditioning. Research shows that a number of neurological and psychological disorders can be characterized by distinctive EEG patterns and that neurofeedback may help clients to change those patterns. The evidence regarding neurofeedback’s efficacy for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression, and other disorders is reviewed. Using control group designs, four different research teams have found neurofeedback to be effective for ADHD participants; research on outcomes for other disorders is at a much more preliminary stage. Practicing psychologists are encouraged to explore the potential of this alternative and distinctly psychological modality. Neurofeedback, also known as EEG biofeedback or EEG operant conditioning, is an emerging modality with the potential of becoming an important part of effective psychological practice. Neurofeedback is a process whereby individuals learn to selfregulate their brain waves. Preliminary findings indicate that teaching individuals to alter electrocortical activity may have beneficial effects for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Other research is ongoing to determine the effectiveness of neurofeedback for other disorders as well, including depression and schizophrenia. Its promise notwithstanding, neurofeedback has been virtually ignored by the mainstream investigators and clinicians. Even accounting for the absence of conclusive empirical efficacy, a process that combines two pillars of psychology— operant conditioning and brain function— deserves greater attention from the psychological community. With this article we hope to call attention to this modality by presenting some of the history and research pertaining to brain wave self-regulation.