Neurofeedback is now commonly accepted support for many conditions. Using Neurofeedback in North London, Southgate, N14 makes me happy, as I am supporting many children, teenagers and people with ADHD, neurodiverse condition, attention issues, sleep disorders, memory issues, PTSD and so on, now I will present research which was supervised by my old supervisor, Prof. Eddy Davelaar.
Cognitive Neurofeedback: A Promising Approach to Supporting Attention and Self-Regulation
The Dynamic Memory and Cognition Laboratory at Birkbeck, University of London, studies human memory and its relationship with attention, learning and cognitive control. The laboratory views cognition as a flexible and dynamic system that can adjust to new information and changing environments.
An exciting area of its research is cognitive neurofeedback. This non-invasive approach commonly uses electroencephalography (EEG) to monitor patterns of brain activity. The information is converted into immediate visual or auditory feedback, allowing participants to become more aware of their responses and practise regulating aspects of their brain activity.
Researchers Anna-Marie Berger and Eddy J. Davelaar explored frontal alpha brain activity and attentional control through virtual-reality neurofeedback. Using an engaging virtual environment can make the learning process more interactive and motivating, while providing participants with real-time information about their brain activity.
Neurofeedback is particularly interesting because it encourages active participation. Instead of simply receiving an intervention, the individual practises attention and self-regulation skills through repeated feedback. As training can respond to the person’s own brain activity, it also offers possibilities for a more individualised approach.
Research in this area may improve our understanding of how attention is controlled and how people can learn to regulate cognitive processes. It could contribute to future support for individuals who experience difficulties with attention, concentration or self-regulation, including some neurodivergent children and adults.
Neurofeedback is a promising and developing field. It is most appropriately considered as part of a broader, individualised support plan and should be delivered by suitably trained professionals using evidence-informed methods.
The work of the Dynamic Memory and Cognition Laboratory demonstrates how neuroscience, technology and active learning can be brought together to explore new and positive ways of supporting cognitive development and wellbeing.
Sources: Dynamic Memory and Cognition Laboratory, DMC Laboratory research projects and Berger and Davelaar’s virtual-reality neurofeedback study.
Key words: neurofeedback effects, ADHD, learning difficulties, special education needs, neurodivergent, neurofeedback and active participation, cognition, memory, University of London, Birkbeck College, Dr Derya Durmaz. Professor Eddy Davelaar, attention, self-regulation.