Efficacy of neurofeedback as a treatment modality for children in the autistic spectrum

Bull Natl Res Cent. 2021;45(1):45. doi: 10.1186/s42269-021-00501-5. Epub 2021 Feb 18.

Abstract

Background: Neurofeedback (NFB) has been conceded as a convenient measure for both identifying and remodeling neural pliability of brain cells; it is a mean through which participants can have voluntary control on their brain waves being expressed on the EEG. Forty-two autistic children received a NFB therapy aiming at improving their cognitive abilities.

Results: NFB succeeded to decrease children's high theta/beta ratio by inhibiting theta activity and intensifying beta activity over different sessions. Following therapy, the children's cognitive functions were found to show comparative improvement compared to pre-treatment assessment on a range of different tasks. Auxiliary improvements were found in their social, thought and attention domains.

Conclusion: These findings propose a basic cognitive function impairment in autism spectrum disorder that can be reduced through specific NFB treatment.

Keywords: Autism spectrum disorder; Neurofeedback; Theta/beta ratio.