Feedback is given to the patient with cues that can be as simple as an audio beep or as complex as a video game. Neurofeedback treatment involves placing electrodes on a person’s head to monitor brain activity. Supporters of this treatment suggest that the brain can be trained to increase the levels of arousal (increase beta waves and reduce theta waves) and thereby reduce ADHD symptoms. Neurofeedback, formerly called electroencephalographic (EEG) biofeedback, and occasionally referred to as neurotherapy, is an intervention for ADHD based on findings that many individuals with ADHD show low levels of arousal in frontal brain areas, with excess of theta waves and deficit of beta waves. (A fourth type of brain wave, called delta, is seen during deep sleep). Theta waves are often seen during times of drowsiness, daydreaming or during light sleep, but can also occur during thoughtless, restless overactivity. Beta waves are present when a person is interacting with the surrounding environment, and is concentrating, thinking, or solving problems. Alpha waves are seen when a person is in a relaxed state, and not actively thinking or interacting with one’s environment. There are several frequencies of brain waves when we are awake these are called alpha (medium), beta (fast), and theta (slow) waves.

When the results of an EEG measurement are analyzed, scientists are able to identify certain brain wave patterns recorded by the machine. The human brain emits electrical activity in waves that can be measured by a device called an electroencephalograph (EEG).

Eeg waves