Is neurofeedback or EEG an effective alternative treatment for ADHD?
Neurofeedback intervention is based on findings that people with ADHD have excess theta waves and fewer than average beta waves. Supporters believe that training the brain to increase beta waves and decrease theta waves, thereby increasing arousal, can decrease ADHD symptoms. There are four frequencies of wavelengths that the human brain emits. These waves are categorized as alpha (medium), beta (fast), theta (slow), and delta (deep sleep). An electroencephalograph (EEG) can measure brain wavelengths and then scientists can evaluate the measurements and identify patterns that occur. Neurofeedback treatment involves teaching the patient how to increase their arousal levels. The patient’s brain activity is monitored through electrodes hooked up to their head. When the brain waves reach a desired frequency, a signal informs the patient. Through training, the patient can ultimately learn how to increase arousal on his or her own. While there has been some promising research in this area, m
