Neurofeedback
This research project aims at (1) further clarifying the interaction of activations in the autonomic and central nervous system, and (2) introducing countermeasures for stressrelated deficiencies in cognitive performance.
Biofeedback training is based on the paradigm of operant conditioning, and provides a methodology for autoregulation, through conscious control over physiological and autonomic functions. Biofeedback therefore serves as a tool to reshape learned responses to stress. Neurofeedback, a particular form of biofeedback, aims at enhancing control over brain activity, through selective suppression and/or reinforcement of particular EEG frequencies. Conscious management and adjustment of arousal-levels leads to a smoother and more efficient adaptation to changing environmental conditions.
The validity of bio-/neurofeedback techniques have been reliably demonstrated, both in clinical and research settings, in treating and remediating arousal related problems (Yucha et al. 2001; Nakao et al., 2003; Olsson et al., 2010), stress management (Neuderth, Jabs et Schmidtke, 2009; McCraty et al., 2009; Bradley et al., 2010), and improvement of attention processes (O’Connell et al., 2008). Neurofeedback has further proven to offer a solid and dependable methodology in training for peak performance in differing domains e.g. sports, music, performing arts (Landers et al., 1991; Egner et Gruzelier, 2003); Vernon, 2005). Ros and colleagues (2009) substantiated enhancement of microsurgical dexterity in eye surgeons. Moreover, neurofeedback simultaneously seems to improve sleep quality, particularly in patients suffering from stress related insomnia (Freedman et al., 1976; Hauri, 1981; Cortoos et al., 2010).
The neurofeedback training protocol will be validated in a student population, whereafter the paradigm will be applied in both a group of student pilots and elite athletes. This will lead to a thorough mapping of the influence and effects of bio-/neurofeedback trainings, within the central and autonomic nervous system. In addition to the traditional pre- and post-measurements, the present study will furthermore evaluate and monitor the actual learning process and learning capacity, through intermediate monitoring of progressive and incremental performance improvement, as each neurofeedback-session is to be followed by a flightsimulator performance assessment.