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Neurofeedback in autism spectrum disorders
Author(s) -
HOLTMANN MARTIN,
STEINER SABINA,
HOHMANN SARAH,
POUSTKA LUISE,
BANASCHEWSKI TOBIAS,
BÖLTE SVEN
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
developmental medicine and child neurology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.658
H-Index - 143
eISSN - 1469-8749
pISSN - 0012-1622
DOI - 10.1111/j.1469-8749.2011.04043.x
Subject(s) - neurofeedback , autism spectrum disorder , autism , generalizability theory , psychology , attention deficit hyperactivity disorder , clinical psychology , medicine , biofeedback , cinahl , psychiatry , psychological intervention , physical medicine and rehabilitation , electroencephalography , developmental psychology
Aim To review current studies on the effectiveness of neurofeedback as a method of treatment of the core symptoms of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Method Studies were selected based on searches in PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, ERIC, and CINAHL using combinations of the following keywords: ‘Neurofeedback’ OR ‘EEG Biofeedback’ OR ‘Neurotherapy’ OR ‘Mu‐Rhythm’ OR ‘SMR’ AND ‘Autism’ OR ‘Autism Spectrum Disorder’ OR ‘Pervasive Developmental Disorder’. Results The existing evidence does not support the use of neurofeedback in the treatment of ASD. Studies with outcomes in favour of neurofeedback might be showing an improvement in comorbid attention‐deficit–hyperactivity disorder symptoms rather than a true improvement in core ASD symptoms. Interpretation Limitations of this review are those inherent in the studies available, including small sample size, short duration, variable diagnostic criteria, and insufficient control interventions, all causing a lack of generalizability.