Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects millions of children worldwide. Characterized by symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, ADHD can significantly impact a child’s academic performance and social interactions. While traditional treatments involve medication and behavioral therapy, the use of neurofeedback therapy combined with ADHD-specific brain training games is an innovative approach showing promising results. We will explore how these technologies, including ADHD-focused brain training games, are being utilized to increase self-regulation, reduce symptoms of anxiety, and enhance mental performance in children with ADHD.
Understanding Neurofeedback Therapy
Neurofeedback therapy is a type of biofeedback that helps individuals regulate their brain activity. Using electroencephalography (EEG), technicians monitor brain wave patterns in real time. The aim is to train patients to modify their brain activity, promoting healthier patterns associated with improved attention and self-regulation. During neurofeedback sessions, children engage in certain tasks, such as watching tv or playing a computer game, while simultaneously receiving immediate feedback. When they produce the desired brain activity, they receive rewards.
Understanding Cognitive Computer Games
Although computerized video game training has been around for a while, newer developments in EEG recording technologies have opened up exciting opportunities for advanced studies and performance. Cognitive computer games are designed to challenge and enhance various psychological skills, including working memory, attention, time perception, and problem-solving. These games can be engaging and enjoyable for children, which is crucial for maintaining their interest in cognitive biofeedback therapy. When integrated into neurofeedback therapy, cognitive games serve a dual purpose: they provide a fun environment for children to engage in while simultaneously offering a platform that allows them to expand and hone their skill set (Ballesteros, S. et al. 2018).
Research Findings on ADHD and Brain Training Games
Emerging research supports the effectiveness of using cognitive computer games in neurofeedback therapy for children with ADHD, as well as those with subclinical AD/HD. Studies that focused on specific software, such as Focus Pocus and MindLight, found that children who engage in neurofeedback sessions incorporating cognitive games demonstrate significant improvements in attention and behavior compared to those who receive standard treatments alone. In addition, they found a significant reduction in anxiety in both child and parent (Schoneveld, E. A, et al. 2016).
To add further, multiple studies have shown improvement in children with autism. Deficits in social skills, shared attention, and self regulation are all hallmarks of cognitive issues similar to ADHD, and the targeted use of games and neurofeedback is shown to be useful for improving communication, problem solving, and social skills (Friedrich, E. V. C., et al. 2014). While some studies in older patients have proven that not all cognitive impairments can be improved significantly, they have highlighted that the symptoms held in common with ADHD children such as visual processing, strategizing, and attention span can be significantly improved (Jirayucharoensak, S. et al. 2019).
The Benefits of Combining Neurofeedback and Cognitive Games
- Enhanced Engagement: Children with ADHD often have shorter attention spans and may struggle to stay engaged in traditional therapy methods. The interactive nature of games helps maintain interest and increase time perception, leading to longer and more productive sessions (Moradi, N. Et al. 2022).
- Real-Time Feedback: The combination of neurofeedback and gaming provides real-time feedback, allowing children to see the immediate impact of their brain activity on their performance in the game. This feedback loop can be motivating and encourages children to actively participate in their treatment.
- Increased Neuroplasticity: Cognitive games specifically designed for ADHD therapy target areas such as working memory, attention span, and cognitive flexibility. As children play, they not only engage with the game but also practice and improve these essential skills in a controlled setting (Johnstone, et al. 2017).
- Data-Driven Insights: The integration of games with neurofeedback allows for the collection of data on a child’s brain activity during gameplay. This data can help therapists tailor interventions to individual needs, monitoring progress over time and adjusting strategies as necessary.
- Reduced Anxiety: Traditional therapeutic approaches can sometimes cause anxiety or resistance in children. The game-based aspect of neurofeedback therapy can reduce the pressure associated with traditional methods, making the child more relaxed and willing to complete the session.
Considerations and Future Directions for ADHD and Brain Training Games
Interventions that target multiple training components can result in enhanced outcomes that optimize the transfer of effects from cognitive deficits and symptoms of ADHD. As technology continues to advance, the development of more sophisticated cognitive games that utilize adaptive learning could further enhance the therapeutic experience of Neurofeedback. Future research is needed to refine these interventions and assess their long-term effectiveness in not only children, but adults as well.
While the use of cognitive computer games shows promise, it is essential to approach this treatment modality thoughtfully given the heterogeneous nature of ADHD. A personalized approach is crucial, and the collaboration of Neurofeedback, cognitive computer games, and qualified therapists who understand both ADHD and neurofeedback is essential for achieving optimal results.
Understanding Neurofeedback Therapy and Brain Training Games for ADHD
Cognitive computer games represent an exciting frontier in neurofeedback therapy for children with ADHD. A combined approach that consists of both neurofeedback and cognitive gameplay can target key components of communication between the brain, body, and behavior that results in a more effective treatment. As we continue to explore and refine these methods, the hope is that more children will experience improved focus, self-regulation, and overall well-being, allowing them to thrive both academically and socially.
Citations
Ballesteros, S., & Voelcker-Rehage, C., & Bherer, L. (2018). Cognitive and Brain Plasticity Induced by Physical Exercise, Cognitive Training, Video games, and Combined Interventions. Frontiers in Human Neuroscience. 12 https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/human-neuroscience/articles/10.3389/fnhum.2018.00169/full
Jirayucharoensak, S., Israsena, P., Pan-ngum, S., Hemrungrojn, S., & Maes, M. (2019) A game-based neurofeedback training system to enhance cognitive performance in healthy elderly subjects and in patients with amnestic mild cognitive impairment. Clinical Interventions in Aging. 14, 347-360 https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.2147/CIA.S189047
Schoneveld, E. A., & Malmberg M., & others. (2016). A neurofeedback video game (Mindlight) to prevent anxiety in children: A randomized controlled trial. Computers in Human Behavior, 63, 321-333. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0747563216303296
Johnstone, S. J., & Roodenrys, S. J., & Johnson K., & Bonfield R., & Bennett, S. J. (2017) Game-based combined cognitive and neurofeedback training using Focus Pocus reduces symptom severity in children with diagnosed AD/HD and subclinical AD/HD. International Journal of Psychophysiology. 116, 32-44 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S016787601730140X
Moradi, N., Rajabi, S., & Mansouri Nejad, A. (2022). The effect of neurofeedback training combined with computer cognitive games on the time perception, attention, and working memory in children with ADHD. Applied Neuropsychology: Child, 13(1), 24–36. https://doi.org/10.1080/21622965.2022.2112679
Friedrich, E. V. C., & Suttie, N., & Sivanathan, A., & Lim, T., & LouchartS., & Pineda, J. A. (2014) Brain-computer interface game applications for combined neurofeedback and biofeedback treatment for children on the autism spectrum. Frontiers in Neuroengineering. 7 https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/neuroengineering/articles/10.3389/fneng.2014.00021/full