Abstract
Although
many psychological disorders have significant basis in neurobiological
dysfunction, most treatment approaches either neglect biological aspects
of the problem, or approach dysfunction through pharmacological
treatment alone, which may expose individuals to negative side effects.
In recent decades, neurofeedback has been promoted as an alternative
approach to treating neurobiological dysfunction. Neurofeedback helps
individuals gain control over subtle brain activity fluctuations through
real-time rewards for pre-established target brainwave frequencies at
specific cortical locations. This paper reviews the effectiveness of
neurofeedback in a range of conditions, including ADHD, autism spectrum
disorders, substance use, PTSD, and learning difficulties. Neurofeedback
has emerged as superior or equivalent to either alternative or no
treatment in many of the examined studies, suggesting it produces some
effects worthy of further examination. In light of its potential to
address neurobiological dysfunction directly, future research is
suggested in order to refine protocols, as well as to establish
effectiveness and efficacy. Potential mechanisms of neurofeedback are
discussed, including global connectivity, neuroplasticity, and
reinforcement of the default mode network, central executive network,
and salience network.
Highlights
►
Neurofeedback is an alternative treatment to psychotherapy or
psychopharmacology. ► This paper reviews rigorously designed RCT studies
of different conditions. ► Potential mechanisms are global
connectivity, plasticity and core network involvement. ► Future
directions to investigate effectiveness, efficacy and mechanism are
proposed.
Keywords
- Neurofeedback;
- Psychopathology;
- Alternative treatment;
- Neurotherapy
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