State-of-the-art ADHD treatment in Hatfield

HYPERACTIVE children will receive state-of-the-art treatment to help reduce the symptoms of having an attention deficit thanks to a University of Hertfordshire study.

A thought-operated computer system, which was tested by 10 Hertfordshire pupils with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders (ADHD) at the Hatfield uni, will be rolled out across the country.

Conducted by psychologist professor Karen Pine, the investigation, which ran three times a week for 12 weeks, looked at the affects of EEG (Electro-encephalography) biofeedback, a learning strategy that alters brain waves.

Prof Pine used a system called Play Attention, supplied by not-for-profit community interest company, Games for Life.

The system involves the child playing a fun educational computer game while wearing a helmet similar to a bicycle helmet.

The helmet picks up their brain activity in the form of EEG waves.

As long as the child concentrates they control the game, but as soon as their attention waivers the game stops. The researchers found at the end of the study that the children’s impulsive behaviour was reduced, compared to a control group who had not used the system.

Prof Pine said: “Children with a diagnosis of ADHD find it hard to control their impulses and inhibit inappropriate behaviour.

“This can lead to educational and behavioural difficulties.

“The Play Attention method may prevent long-term problems by helping the children to be less impulsive and more self-controlled.”

For further information visit www.gamesforlife.co.uk