Neurofeedback and meditation technology in outpatient offender treatment: a feasibility and usability pilot study

TL;DR

This pilot study explores the feasibility of using neuromeditation training with EEG neurofeedback in treating impulse control issues in adult offenders.

Contribution

The study introduces a novel neuromeditation protocol combining neurofeedback and meditation for forensic outpatient treatment.

Findings

Eight patients completed the 4-week neuromeditation training with therapists' guidance.

The training was deemed sufficiently usable and feasible despite some obstacles.

Suggestions for improvement were gathered to support future effectiveness trials.

Abstract

Although Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is the most often used intervention in forensic treatment, its effectivity is not consistently supported. Interventions incorporating knowledge from neuroscience could provide for more successful intervention methods.

The current pilot study set out to assess the feasibility and usability of the study protocol of a 4-week neuromeditation training in adult forensic outpatients with impulse control problems. The neuromeditation training, which prompts awareness and control over brain states of restlessness with EEG neurofeedback, was offered in addition to treatment as usual (predominantly CBT).

Eight patients completed the neuromeditation training under guidance of their therapists. Despite some emerging obstacles, overall, the training was rated sufficiently usable and feasible by patients and their therapists.

The provided suggestions for improvement can be used to implement the intervention in treatment and set up future trials to study the effectiveness of neuromeditation in offender treatment.