The Efficacy of "Neurofeedback", Compared to "Ritalin" and "Combined Neurofeedback and Ritalin" for the Reduction of ADHD Symptoms

This study aimed at the efficacy of "Neurofeedback", "Compared to Ritalin" and "Combined Neurofeedback and Ritalin" for managing and controlling ADHD symptoms through an experimental design. Sixteen students with ADHD (combined type) were assigned to three different therapeutic settings("Neurofeedback", "Ritalin", and "Combined Neurofeedback and Ritalin") and one Waiting-List setting. All participants were assessed through the following measures: pre-and-post-tests and a continuous performance test (the Iran TOVA), WISC-R, and Conner's Test- Parent Form. The Results revealed that "Combined Neurofeedback and Ritalin" setting is more effective than the other two interventions, while, the efficacy of Neurofeedback is equal to Ritalin. Parents were more satisfied with neurofeedback than medication (as Conner's post test scores reflect). These results corresponded to those of other studies which employed a multidimensional therapeutic approach. Furthermore, it can be concluded that Neurofeedback is a good alternative when patients dont respond to medication or medication has negative side effects.