Alternative Attention Deficit Treatment

Controversial Biofeedback Therapy Doesn't Involve Drugs

KNOXVILLE, Tenn., Posted 6:40 p.m. January 14, 1999 -- There's a relatively new, but controversial, alternative to treating children with attention deficit disorder.

A new study in the journal Science reports there is no consensus on the best way to treat ADD. But an alternative treatment called biofeedback is getting the attention of parents who don't want to give their child drugs, reported CBS 2 News.

Biofeedback is a high-tech computer which measures changes in brainwave patterns and helps children stay focused.

"The overall success rate based on about 1,200 to 1,500 groups around the country is approximately 70 to 80 percent of individuals fain do very well," said Dr. Joel Lubar, of the Southeastern Biofeedback Institute.

But some psychologists are skeptical, said the television station. They say biofeedback is an unproven therapy -- nothing but hype that digs deep into the pockets of desperate parents.

More information:

• The National Attention Deficit Disorder Association is built around the needs of adults with ADD and ADHD.
• The Association for Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback is dedicated to research, clinical applications and public information on biofeedback, related sciences and stress disorders.
• The Bio Research Institute offers clinical biofeedback training, education and research.
• The Biofeedback Webzine covers biofeedback technology, practive and research.

Compiled by IBS Staff