title: Neurofeedback and cognitive attention training for children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in schools.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To evaluate the efficacy of 2 computer attention training systems administered in school for children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
  
  
  METHODS
  Children in second and fourth grade with a diagnosis of ADHD (n = 104) were randomly assigned to neurofeedback (NF) (n = 34), cognitive training (CT) (n = 34), or control (n = 36) conditions. A 2-point growth model assessed change from pre-post intervention on parent reports (Conners 3-Parent [Conners 3-P]; Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function [BRIEF] rating scale), teacher reports (Swanson, Kotkin, Agler, M-Flynn and Pelham scale [SKAMP]; Conners 3-Teacher [Conners 3-T]), and systematic classroom observations (Behavioral Observation of Students in Schools [BOSS]). Paired t tests and an analysis of covariance assessed change in medication.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Children who received NF showed significant improvement compared with those in the control condition on the Conners 3-P Attention, Executive Functioning and Global Index, on all BRIEF summary indices, and on BOSS motor/verbal off-task behavior. Children who received CT showed no improvement compared to the control condition. Children in the NF condition showed significant improvements compared to those in the CT condition on Conners 3-P Executive Functioning, all BRIEF summary indices, SKAMP Attention, and Conners 3-T Inattention subscales. Stimulant medication dosage in methylphenidate equivalencies significantly increased for children in the CT (8.54 mg) and control (7.05 mg) conditions but not for those in the NF condition (0.29 mg).
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Neurofeedback made greater improvements in ADHD symptoms compared to both the control and CT conditions. Thus, NF is a promising attention training treatment intervention for children with ADHD.
authors.affiliation: *The Floating Hospital for Children at Tufts Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, Boston, MA; †Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, MA.
authors.forename: Naomi J
authors.initials: NJ
authors.lastname: Steiner
authors.forename: Elizabeth C
authors.initials: EC
authors.lastname: Frenette
authors.forename: Kirsten M
authors.initials: KM
authors.lastname: Rene
authors.forename: Robert T
authors.initials: RT
authors.lastname: Brennan
authors.forename: Ellen C
authors.initials: EC
authors.lastname: Perrin
mesh_terms: D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants / Q000008:administration & dosage; D002648:Child; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D004569:Electroencephalography; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D058765:Neurofeedback / Q000379:methods*; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; D012574:Schools; D016896:Treatment Outcome
chemical_list: D000697:Central Nervous System Stimulants