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3 Brainwave Connections Winter 2005

Text Box: The issue is not so much that of "rewarding" or "punishing" specific states, as it is of allowing the system to know that these states exist, and thereby providing the simple power of decision, hence control. These considerations apply equally well over a broad range of designated "disorders" or "conditions", and their typical interventions. Whether the training variable is amplitude, asymmetry, coherence, or any other derived parameter, overall, the brain is asked to explore the dimensional possibilities of the feedback signal, and to learn to develop the flexibility to enter and exit those conditions, and to recognize when conditions are being met. Whether the result is a change in designated symptoms, general focus, overall activation, mood, or other neuropsychological variables, the basic mechanism behind neurofeedback training remains one of providing sufficient neuronal flexibility to produce desired states, at appropriate times. Another value of the F&A point of view is that it helps to understand the connection between the "relaxation" training that is purportedly being provided through neurofeedback, and the overarching benefits such as improvements in concentration, performance, creativity,

Text Box: and so on. When we view the entire brain/mind process as one of dynamical changes and adaptations to demands of input and processing, the importance of flexibility and appropriateness to function and performance becomes clear. It is not so much a case of whether a brain is "good" or "bad," or whether it is well suited to a particular task. It is more a matter of any particular brain being "in the right place" and "at the right time" so that the best outcome is forthcoming. It is interesting to note that even the greatest poets or physicists or musicians still have the same basic machinery as the rest of us. Their limbs, bodies, and brains are not qualitatively different from anyone else's in any fundamental way. But when a physicist sits in front of a problem, there is simply that extra taking of time, of relaxing certain judgements and plans, and of allowing their brain to take in the information, in a manner that is appropriate to the task. The question has been asked, "Is this good for ADD", or "Will this help with my depression?". Specific answers are available to these questions. However, an overarching answer is "This is good for anyone". That is, we should not specifically care whether a trainee presents with any particular constellation of parameters. The primary

Text Box: assumption is that the use of neurofeedback can be beneficial and of value, and that the protocols and methods will be adapted to a full range of issues, of which clinical presentation is but one. Beyond the realm of practicing and interpreting neurofeedback work, we can further apply these concepts in our interactions with professionals, clients, educators, the general public, and other groups. It is evident that the applicability of neurofeedback extends well beyond the naive concept of "relaxation training" as it has been historically understood. We must look toward considerable work, research, publication, and clinical studies, before the full acceptance of neurofeedback in all of its potential, will be realized. About the author: Dr, Thomas F. Collura is a biomedical engineer, neurophysiologist, and educator. He has over 30 years of professional experience in the areas of EEG, evoked potentials, brain mapping for epilepsy, computer systems, and neurofeedback. He has held senior staff and faculty positions with AT&T Bell Laboratories, the Cleveland Clinic, and Case Western Reserve University. He received undergraduate degrees in philosophy and biology from Brown University, and the Ph.D. in biomedical engineering from Case Western Reserve University.

Text Box: It is not so much an issue of “rewarding” or “punishing” specific states, as it is one of allowing the system to know that these states exist, and thereby gain the simple power of decision, hence control.