Difficulties encountered which could be enhanced
Autism is a neuro-developmental disorder that often appears before the age of 3 years. Although no treatment exists to date, several research groups are interested in better understanding the neurological mechanisms of pathology and thanks to quantitative electroencephalography (EEGq), there has been great progress over the past decade.
Many clinicians have used EEG-based interventions as a therapeutic strategy. In this lineage, Neurofeedback has shown promising results to improve the quality of life of people with autism, as well as those around them.
According to a controlled study by Jarusiewicz in 20021, children who have followed a training program in Neurofeedback have seen the following improvements:
- Reduction of symptoms
- Improvement of sociability
- Increased cognitive awakening
- Language improvement
- Better communication
Another study conducted by Pinda in 20122 shows significant improvements, following 30 30-minute sessions in Neurofeedback. Parents reported a significant reduction in symptoms as measured by the Autism Treatment Evaluation Checklist (ATEC), in addition to a 40% improvement in cognitive and sensory awareness.
Coben and Padlolsky also conducted a study in 20073 to measure the effect of 20 sessions of Neurofeedback with a protocol aimed at decreasing hyperconnectivity between certain regions of the brain. The parents then noticed an 89% improvement in symptoms and a 40% reduction in the ATEC score.
Of course, you should not see Neurofeedback as a treatment for people with autism, but the results obtained to improve their condition are certainly encouraging.
1. Efficacy of Neurofeedback for Children in the Autistic Spectrum: A Pilot Study
Betty Jarusiewicz PhD
2. Self-regulation of brain oscillations as a treatment for aberrant brain connections in children with autism
J.A. Pineda ⇑, A. Juavinett, M. Datko
3. Assessment-Guided Neurofeedback for Autistic Spectrum Disorder Journal of Neurotherapy 11(1):5-23 · June 2007
