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

A 4-week neuromeditation training using EEG neurofeedback to increase awareness and control over restless brain states was tested for feasibility and usability in eight adult forensic outpatients with impulse control problems. The training was added to treatment as usual, predominantly cognitive behavioral therapy. Despite some obstacles, patients and therapists rated the training sufficiently usable and feasible. Suggestions for improvement are offered to support implementation and future trials of neuromeditation in offender treatment.

Study at a glance

Abstract

Introduction 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. 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). Results 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. Discussion 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.