Efficacy of Neurofeedback for Children in the Autistic Spectrum: A Pilot Study

Jarusiewicz BJournal of Neurotherapy2002 Win; 6/4: 39-49

ABSTRACT: Background: The efficacy of neurofeedback training was evaluated in 12 children in the autistic spectrum with matched controls, based on established training protocols for other conditions with similar symptoms.

Method: Twenty-four autistic children were divided into two groups, matched by sex, age, and disorder severity. One group received neurofeedback training and the second acted as a control group. Responses to the Autism Treatment Evaluation Checklists (ATEC) and parental assessments of problem behaviors were analyzed to evaluate the effectiveness of neurofeedback training for this condition.

Results: Neurofeedback training resulted in a 26% average reduction in total ATEC rated autism symptoms, compared to 3% for the control group. Parental assessments reported improvement in all behavioral categories: socialization, vocal-ization, anxiety, schoolwork, tantrums, and sleep, compared with minimal changes in the control group.

Discussion: Autistic spectrum children who underwent neurofeedback training showed significant improvements in autism symptoms and behaviors. The magnitude of improvement was independent of initial severity or age.

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