Objectives of the Research
- Measure the output from the prefrontal cortex region, in a neurofeedback experience using the Peak Brain Happiness Trainer (PBHT).
- Evaluate the affect of neurofeedback training on individuals diagnosed with ADHD.
- Explore possibilities of overall enhancement of cognitive functions.
Pilot Studies and Experiments of Neurofeedback
- Pilot study performed on 6 meditators practicing Transcendental Meditation and 6 people who didn’t do meditation, to see the effect of increased 40-Hz or “Neureka” rhythm from the prefrontal cortex and the inner experiences associated with it. The following results were derived from the data collected:
- Subjects experienced positive feelings of love and joy.
- No negative experiences and had reduced stress.
- Meditators performed better than the controls.
- Increased production of clarified 40 Hz from the prefrontal cortex.
- Study done to train focused attention and alertness level in ADHD. Twelve sessions of prefrontal neurofeedback were given to ADHD individuals, to study its effect on behavioral performance. An audio-visual IVA+PLUS selective attention task, a Focus/Alertness neurofeedback course and an
Aberrant Behavior Checklist test was administered to twelve patients. Following were the results:
- Increased sustenance in both auditory and visual areas.
- Decrease in hyperactivity, lethargy and inappropriate speech.
- High motivational engagement.
- Enhanced ability to control focus and alertness.
- Lastly, a study was done for training of 40 Hz gamma (Neureka!) and focused attention level in control subjects. Results of the study were:
- Ability to control focus and Neureka measures.
- 40 Hz gamma increased gradually.
- Increase in the visual sustained attention quotient score.
- Increase in the General Cognitive Score, combining information processing speed and accuracy.
- Increase in memory function and spatial processing.
Overall Advantages of Neurofeedback Training on Cognitive Functions
- Develops Memory function
- Increases focus, concentration and attention
- Controls peak mental functioning
- Lowers stress levels
- Develops creative thinking abilities
- Enhances mood and increases positive emotions
- Increases production in all areas of life
- Increases confidence and self-assurance
Reference
Liebert A. Mary. 2011. Neurofeedback-Enhanced Gamma Brainwaves from the Prefrontal Cortical Region of Meditators and Non-Meditators and Associated Subjective Experiences. The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. (vol.17). Retrieved from
http://www.peakachievement.com/articles/Rubik_NeuroFBK_enhanced_gamma_JACM_2011.pdf
Sokhadze T. Estate. 2012. Peak Performance Training Using Prefrontal EEG Biofeedback. Biofeedback. (vol. 40). Retrieved from
http://www.peakachievement.com/articles/Sokhadze%20in%20BIOFEEDBACK%202012.pdf
