Performance enhancement
Research Papers
Showing 6 of 8Discrete-Trial SCP and GSR Training and the Interrelationship Between Central and Peripheral Arousal
Introduction. Slow Cortical Potential (SCP) neurofeedback and Galvanic Skin Response (GSR) biofeedback training were used to investigate self-regulatory control over central and peripheral arousal processes in two groups of healthy participants. Method. One group completed the SCP neurofeedback training procedure; the other group performed the GSR biofeedback procedure. Both groups underwent treatment while the other variable was passively recorded. The participants were instructed to either increase (Up trials) or decrease (Down trials) arousal. Twenty sessions were completed by each of the 18 participants over an 8-week period. Results. Participants in each group performed better on the variable they were trained on. In the GSR group, a significant increase in performance over blocks was obtained for both trial types (Up and Down). In the SCP group a better performance on the Down trials was obtained. When comparing performance of both trial types, the SCP-trained participants showed a marginal increase and the GSR-trained participants a significant increase over time preliminary-training. Conclusion. Overall, the results showed that GSR regulation is easier to learn than SCP training with neurofeedback, that both variables can be trained in a bidirectional design, and that the SCP training subjects were predominantly able to learn performance at the Down trials. Preliminary results from the cross-correlations are inconsistent over trial types, trained parameters, and participants. However, the general trend shows a more positive correlation at the end of training compared to the start of training. Cross-correlation analysis suggests that this training encourages positive correlation between the SCP and GSR. Future research directions should be aimed at improving motivational conditions, implementing contingent reward principles, and controlling confounding variables.
View Full Paper →Alpha Neurofeedback Training for Performance Enhancement: Reviewing the Methodology
Introduction. Considerable interest has been, and still is, generated by the potential performance enhancing benefits of alpha neurofeedback training (NFT) for healthy participants. A plausible rationale for such training, with an aim to improve mood and/or enhance cognition, can be made based upon what is already known of the links between alpha EEG activity and behavior. However, designing an optimal NFT paradigm remains difficult because a number of methodological factors that may influence the outcome of such training remain largely unexplored. Method. This article focuses on these methodological factors in an attempt to highlight some of the unanswered questions and stimulate future research. Results. Specifically, this article examines the NFT training schedule; the variety, basis, and setting of reward thresholds; the nature and modality of the feedback signal provided; unidirectional as compared to bidirectional NFT; the establishment of a target frequency range for alpha; whether NFT should be conducted with eyes open or closed; and the identification of a clear index of learning. Conclusions. Throughout, the article provides a number of suggestions and possible directions for future research.
View Full Paper →A theory of alpha/theta neurofeedback, creative performance enhancement, long distance functional connectivity and psychological integration
Professionally significant enhancement of music and dance performance and mood has followed training with an EEG-neurofeedback protocol which increases the ratio of theta to alpha waves using auditory feedback with eyes closed. While originally the protocol was designed to induce hypnogogia, a state historically associated with creativity, the outcome was psychological integration, while subsequent applications focusing on raising the theta–alpha ratio, reduced depression and anxiety in alcoholism and resolved post traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD). In optimal performance studies we confirmed associations with creativity in musical performance, but effects also included technique and communication. We extended efficacy to dance and social anxiety. Diversity of outcome has a counterpart in wide ranging associations between theta oscillations and behaviour in cognitive and affective neuroscience: in animals with sensory-motor activity in exploration, effort, working memory, learning, retention and REM sleep; in man with meditative concentration, reduced anxiety and sympathetic autonomic activation, as well as task demands in virtual spatial navigation, focussed and sustained attention, working and recognition memory, and having implications for synaptic plasticity and long term potentiation. Neuroanatomical circuitry involves the ascending mescencephalic-cortical arousal system, and limbic circuits subserving cognitive as well as affective/motivational functions. Working memory and meditative bliss, representing cognitive and affective domains, respectively, involve coupling between frontal and posterior cortices, exemplify a role for theta and alpha waves in mediating the interaction between distal and widely distributed connections. It is posited that this mediation in part underpins the integrational attributes of alpha–theta training in optimal performance and psychotherapy, creative associations in hypnogogia, and enhancement of technical, communication and artistic domains of performance in the arts.
View Full Paper →Biofeedback and Dance Performance: A Preliminary Investigation
Alpha-theta neurofeedback has been shown to produce professionally significant performance improvements in music students. The present study aimed to extend this work to a different performing art and compare alpha-theta neurofeedback with another form of biofeedback: heart rate variability (HRV) biofeedback. Twenty-four ballroom and Latin dancers were randomly allocated to three groups, one receiving neurofeedback, one HRV biofeedback and one no intervention. Dance was assessed before and after training. Performance improvements were found in the biofeedback groups but not in the control group. Neurofeedback and HRV biofeedback benefited performance in different ways. A replication with larger sample sizes is required
View Full Paper →Can Neurofeedback Training Enhance Performance? An Evaluation of the Evidence with Implications for Future Research
There have been many claims regarding the possibilities of performance enhancement training. The aim of such training is for an individual to complete a specific function or task with fewer errors and greater efficiency, resulting in a more positive outcome. The present review examined evidence from neurofeedback training studies to enhance performance in a particular area. Previous research has documented associations between specific cortical states and optimum levels of performance in a range of tasks. This information provides a plausible rationale for the use of neurofeedback to train individuals to enhance their performance. An examination of the literature revealed that neurofeedback training has been utilised to enhance performance from three main areas; sport, cognitive and artistic performance. The review examined evidence from neurofeedback training studies within each of these three areas. Some suggestive findings have been reported with regard to the use of neurofeedback training to enhance performance. However, due to a range of methodological limitations and a general failure to elicit unambiguous changes in baseline EEG activity, a clear association between neurofeedback training and enhanced performance has yet to be established. Throughout, the review highlights a number of recommendations to aid and stimulate future research.
View Full Paper →Optimal Functioning Training with EEG Biofeedback for Clinical Populations: A Case Study
Introduction. This case study of a mature female executive with Dissociative Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (DDNOS) demonstrates the Quality of Life Continuum (QLC) and the efficacy of specific EEG biofeedback protocols in enhancing performance and improving global life functioning for people with clinical disorders. The QLC begins with the functioning level of people with severe clinical problems and ends with superior functioning people, with three levels of functioning in between those two ends of the continuum. It is a graphic for demonstrating that any level of functioning can be improved through the use of protocols specifically designed for optimal functioning. Method. Pre- and post-quantitative electroencephalograms (QEEGs) were done on the subject. Other measures of change were self-report and co-worker feedback. The subject was taught how to train independently with specific peak performance protocols. She did 60 fifteen-minute training sessions in two months. Results. The changes in her QEEGs were measured by a comparison of her pre- and post-scores on the Thatcher Life Span EEG Reference Database. The subject went from 166 abnormalities with significance levels ranging from p < .025 to p < .001 to only 17 abnormalities. The subject reported significant life improvement changes, including increased energy and motivation. Among the changes cited by co-workers was a decrease in her anger outbursts from an average of three times per week to two times per month. Discussion. The independent use of neurofeedback with specific peak performance protocols can enhance the quality of life for a person with a clinical diagnosis.
View Full Paper →Ready to Optimize Your Brain?
Schedule a free consultation to discuss performance enhancement and how neurofeedback training can help
Or call us directly at 855-88-BRAIN
View Programs & Pricing →