Optimal Functioning Training with EEG Biofeedback for Clinical Populations: A Case Study

Résumé

Introduction. This case study of a mature female executive with Dissociative Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (DDNOS) demonstrates the Quality of Life Continuum (QLC) and the efficacy of specific EEG biofeedback protocols in enhancing performance and improvin global life functioning for people with clinical disorders. The QLC begins with the functioning level of people with severe clinical problems and ends with superior functioning people, with three levels of functioning in between those two ends of the continuum. It is a graphic for demonstrating that any level of functioning can be improved through the use of protocols specifically designed for optimal functioning. Method. Pre- and post-quantitative electroencephalograms (QEEGs) were done on the subject. Other measures of change were self-report and co-worker feedback. The subject was taught how to train independently with specific peak performance protocols. She did 60 fifteen-minute training sessions in two months. Results. The changes in her QEEGs were measured by a comparison of her pre- and post-scores on the Thatcher Life Span EEG Reference Database. The subject went from 166 abnormalities with significance levels ranging from p < .025 to p < .001 to only 17 abnormalities. The subject reported significant life improvement changes, including increased energy and motivation. Among the changes cited by co-workers was a decrease in her anger outbursts from an average of three times per week to two times per month. Discussion. The independent use of neurofeedback with specific peak performance protocols can enhance the quality of life for a person with a clinical diagnosis.