Neuromodulation by means of electroencephalography biofeedback (neurofeedback) is used to promote self-regulation. This general method has been applied in a variety of neurobehavioral problems and disorders. Neurofeedback is also used in peak performance training, to optimize cognitive and affective status in the absence of clinical diagnosis. When quantitative EEG (QEEG) is available as part of client assessment, it is possible to measure neurophysiological activity directly. There are patterns that can be identified that implicate dysfunctional localized regional processing, and these patterns can be used to guide neurofeedback intervention (Johnstone, 2008). Young athletes often have mild to serious problems with their psychological state, especially during championships and games. So, we supposed that neurofeedback training must help them to control their mind and body interactions without any drugs and medications. We carried out five neurofeedback trainings with 20 college students (athletes 16-19 years old). EEG was recorded from left and right occipital areas during 15 min of relaxation. Alpha-rhythm power was transformed into the line on the screen. The instruction was to sit with eyes closed and to reach a relaxed state and try to enhance their alpha-rhythm index (line on the screen) during the relaxation period. To reach relaxed state students had to use diaphragmatic breathing. It is a very good method for breathing and relaxation because it allows the most efficient exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide with the least effort. It also helps enhance general relaxation. Also anxiety level (Spielberger scale) and self-reports was collected before and after neurofeedback training. Alpha, beta and theta power were calculated at the beginning and at the end of each session. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS software package (descriptive statistics, Spearman correlation, Mann-Whitney U-test, Fisher test). Athletes showed a trend toward decreased beta power and increased alpha power from beginning to end of the relaxation period. According to correlation analysis there were a lot of significant correlation between brain activity and anxiety level in male sportsmen, but no significant correlations in females. We also found a decrease of the reactive anxiety only in males. According to the self-reports, most of students noticed some effects of the training: they became more concentrated, less anxious, had better sleep and some of them forgot about headaches. Differences between male andfemale students might be explained by the fact that females' hormonal fluctuations influence their psychological state and neurofeedback effectiveness (Bazanova et al, 2006, 2008). These results suggests that EEG-neurofeedback can positively influence the psychological state (reduce reactive anxiety), sports performance and wellness of the students, but we should take into account individual characteristics, such as day of the menstrual cycle for females and baseline EEG parameters for everybody.
© Copyright 2012 International Journal of Psychophysiology. Elsevier. Alle Rechte vorbehalten.