Neurofeedback for Adult Attention-Defizit-/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A proof of principle comparison of Slow Cortical Potentials and Near-Infrared-Feedback with Placebo Treatment

• Applicants: Ann-Christine Ehlis, Ph.D.; Professor Dr. Andreas Jochen Fallgatter; Privatdozentin Dr. Ute Strehl
• Subject Area: Personality Psychology, Clinical and Medical Psychology, Methodology
• Term: from 2013 to 2018
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 232528864

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is characterized by symptoms of inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Hitherto, only a few studies have investigated ADHD in an adult population and even less have investigated new forms of treatment such as neurofeedback training. Neurofeedback training has been applied effectively in various areas, especially in the treatment of children with ADHD. This study is designed to investigate the effect of slow cortical potentials (SPC) neurofeedback training and a new form of neurofeedback using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) on symptomatology and neurophysiological parameters in an adult ADHD population.A comparison of SCP and NIRS neurofeedback therapy methods has not been previously conducted and may yield valuable findings about alternative treatments for adult ADHD. The outcome of both neurofeedback techniques will be assessed over 30 training sessions and after a six month follow-up period and compared to placebo training. Furthermore, to investigate if training effects in this proof of principle study can be predicted by specific neurophysiological baseline parameters, regression models will be applied. Finally, a comparison with healthy controls will be conducted to evaluate deviant pre-training neurophysiologic parameters, stability of assessment measures, and treatment outcome.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• Participating Persons: Professor Dr. Niels Birbaumer; Dr. Lena Ernst; Professor Dr. Boris Kotchoubey