A Quasi-Experimental Study on the Effectiveness of Integrated Electroencephalogram Neurofeedback Training and Group Psychotherapy for Harmful Alcohol Use: Neurocognitive and Clinical Outcomes

Authors

  • Shalini Gouri Panicker CHRIST (Deemed to be University)
  • Dr. Tony Sam George
  • Dr. Cathlyn Niranjana Bennett

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15540/nr.11.3.255

Keywords:

craving, executive functions, harmful alcohol use, neurofeedback, psychotherapy, stress

Abstract

Introduction. This study investigates the efficacy of integrating electroencephalogram (EEG) neurofeedback training and group psychotherapy for individuals with harmful alcohol use (AUDIT-10 scores 10–13). Methods. Seventy-six participants were purposively sampled and divided into treatment (EEG neurofeedback training and group psychotherapy) and control groups. Baseline assessments measured alcohol consumption (AUDIT-10), stress (perceived stress scale [PSS]), neurocognition (NIMHANS neuropsychological battery), craving (PACS), and visual analog scale. The treatment group underwent 20 sessions of EEG neurofeedback (Peniston-Kulkosky and Scott-Kaiser modification protocols) and four sessions of group psychotherapy (motivational interviewing [MI], psychoeducation). Result/Discussion. A repeated measures ANOVA showed significant improvement in postcondition scores for the treatment group compared to controls, who exhibited deterioration over time. The study provides evidence supporting the efficacy of integrated EEG neurofeedback training and group psychotherapy in mitigating harmful alcohol use progression. Conclusion. By addressing stress, cognition, and cravings, this intervention offers crucial support to individuals with problematic drinking.

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2024-09-30

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