Can We Play with ADHD? An Alternative Game-Based Treatment for Inattentive Symptoms in Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder presenting in early childhood with persistent, pervasive and impairing symptoms. It is also associated with other problematic mental health issues and negative outcomes, such as aggression, difficulties forming relationships and academic and occupational problems. Current standard treatments for ADHD include pharmacological treatments with stimulants and other medications, psychosocial interventions such as behavioural modifications, or a combination of both approaches (multi-modal approach consisting of parent education, medication and behaviour management for the child). There is interest in understanding effective non-pharmacological treatments for ADHD, given the temporary effects of medication and recent controversies on over-medicating children with ADHD. The use of neurofeedback treatment and cognitive training offers a promising new area for clinicians. We present a brain–computer interface (BCI)-based neurofeedback and cognitive training programme targeting the inattentive symptoms of ADHD in this chapter. The concept of an individualized model of attention is one of the features of the BCI training system. Incorporating this attention model into an innovative game targeted at ADHD children is another unique feature of this system. Recognizing the importance of validating serious games for the use of therapy, we have conducted several trials testing out the validity and playability of the BCI game, including a pilot phase and a larger randomized controlled trial. Currently, the future of this BCI-based treatment for ADHD is promising and we hope that, through our research efforts, it may prove to be an effective and viable treatment option that also appeals to the game-playing nature of children.