Is Neurofeedback Training an Efficacious Treatment for ADHD? A Review of Recent Findings

Abstract

Neurofeedback training (NF) for the treatment of children with ADHD has found increasing acceptance. Until recently, methodologically satisfactory studies on NF efficacy were lacking. This review gives an introduction to NF principles and protocols, followed by a short overview of recent studies and methodological approaches. Different control group designs, imaging findings, and studies investigating the association between outcome and learned cortical regulation are covered. Even though many methodological issues still need to be addressed, evidence is emerging that NF may have some specific effects. Future studies will have to demonstrate to which extent these specific effects contribute directly to clinical improvements.