Neurofeedback

Neurofeedback, sometimes called neurobiofeedback or EEG biofeedback, is a training system in which brain wave activity, obtained by sensors on the scalp, is presented to an individual as feedback in the form of a video display, sound or vibration. When brain activity moves toward desired patterns of self-regulation, the display (often a video game) advances or the tone intensifies, slowing or stopping as brain activity regresses. Well-described patterns of optimal brain function are cultivated over sessions, accompanied by diminution or elimination of pathologic conditions as the brain orchestrates its own improvements. Results are at least long-lasting, often permanent, and continue to advance following training. Some proponents labor to establish its scientific credibility in the disease model, although other proponents believe that such applications will become trivial as far more compelling results emerge in all areas of maximizing human capacities.

A common use for Neurofeedback is in treating patients with epilepsy, ADD /ADHD, learning disabilities and even cerebral insults. Frequently, these patients will show a "slowing" pattern in their EEG (Electroencephalogram) because of the pronounced level of Theta Waves present. Training these down over many sessions has been shown to increase one's ability to attend and focus.

See also: Neurotheology, the neurobiology of spiritual experience.

Quotes

• "The introduction of feedback to any system will elevate that system to a higher level of functioning." -Biocybernaut Institute

External links

• The Principal Frequency Bands- simplified
• Common Applications Page

There are four professional organizations involved:

• The International Society for Neuronal Regulation hosts annual professional conferences, and publishes a peer-reviewed journal that focus on neurofeedback.
• The Association for Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback hosta an annual and regional professional conferences on applied psychophysiology including neurofeedback. They have published a peer reviewed journal since about 1975.
• The EEG and Clinical Neuroscience Society is a medical EEG society that includes the exploration of neurofeedback in its statement of intentions, and publishes relavent articles in its journal Clinical EEG.
• The Biofeedback Certification Institute of America is the recognized certification organization for licensed professionals competent in applied psychophysiology, including neurofeedback.

The following are businesses associated with the industry:

• Biocybernaut Instituteneurofeedback resources archive ('cybernaut' means "a computer user or programmer" (OED))
• EEG Spectrum International, Inc. is a corporation whose pledge is to "promote the achievement of full human potential through brain-based self-regulation techniques, and to help evolve human consciousness through the exploration and development of advanced technologies for self-regulation, self-awareness and self-knowledge".[1]
• OpenEEG is an open source hardware and software project for amateur and professional neurofeedback practitioners alike.
• The Learning Curve, Inc. (TLC) is a private company who provides assessment and training services and equipment for individuals interested in adopting neurofeedback into their personal or professional practice.
• BioExplorer software works with many hardware platforms and provides a wide range of options for creating and modifying neurofeedback design protocols.