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Dr. DeLuca says the effects of neurofeedback are long-lasting unlike drug therapies. |
PET scans and EEGs have shown that attention deficit disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADD/ADHD) have a neurological basis, which is characterized by decreased activity in the frontal and central or subcortical regions of the brain. Affected children exhibit EEG brain wave patterns characteristic of "non-attention" (or slow waves). If patients can somehow decrease this slow-wave (theta) brain activity and increase faster activity or beta brain waves, the effects of ADD/ADHD may be improved or even eliminated. Many researchers and physicians choose to reduce symptoms of inattention and distractibility with medications, but John DeLuca, PhD, advocates neurofeedback and self-regulation as another promising alternative.
According to Dr. DeLuca, assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioral neurosciences, neurofeedback is an EEG biofeedback technique that trains patients to alter their own brain wave patterns and, in the case of ADD children, correct symptoms such as inattentiveness, impulsivity, daydreaming and inability to concentrate. He recently received funding from the Mental Illness Research Association for his latest investigation, entitled "Neurofeedback Treatment of Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder."
By combining computer technology with techniques from learning theory and meditative traditions, children with attentional problems learn to develop one-pointed concentration. Using computer feedback of actual brain activity and verbal prompts by the trainer, children learn to become aware of when they are losing focus and how to re-establish concentration or attention. This results in a voluntary shift from an inattentive state reflected by slow wave brain activity, to faster wave activity.
As current research suggests, ADD/ADHD reflects impaired frontal lobe functioning associated with executive function skills such as response inhibition, working memory, planning, flexibility in thinking, and the ability to stay on task. Dr. DeLuca contends that less is understood of executive dysfunction as compared to basic skills such as reading, spelling or arithmetic. Unfortunately school assessment procedures and criteria for receiving special education services do not typically address these abilities. As a result, Dr. DeLuca indicated that children with executive dysfunction are at risk for "falling through the cracks." They are prone to acting out, conduct disorder, substance abuse, and later antisocial personality disorders, any of which may lead to poor work and personal adjustment.
Traditionally, ADD/ADHD has been controlled through the use of psychostimulant medication such as Ritalin. However, there has been much publicity as well as concern by parents regarding the possible overprescription of such drugs. "While psychostimulants have a proven track record of effectiveness, neurofeedback provides another alternative," said Dr. DeLuca. In fact, studies have shown that the effects of neurofeedback are long-lasting after treatment is completed.