Slow cortical potential biofeedback and the startle reflex.

Full Abstract

The negativity of slow cortical potentials (SCP) of the surface EEG is a measure of brain excitability, correlating with motor and cognitive preparation. Self-control of SCP positivity has been shown to reduce seizure activity. Following SCP biofeedback from a central EEG electrode position, subjects gained bidirectional control over their SCP. The current study used a modified feedback methodology, and found a positive relationship between negativity and magnitude of EMG startle response (a measure of cortical and subcortical arousal, particularly aversive response disposition). Greater success in SCP differentiation was associated with self-report of less relaxation during negativity training.

Author information

Author/s: Brody, S (S); Rau, H (H); Köhler, F (F); Schupp, H (H); Lutzenberger, W (W); Birbaumer, N (N);

Affiliation: University of Tübingen, Germany.

Journal and publication information

Publication Type: Journal Article; Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

Journal: Biofeedback and self-regulation (Biofeedback Self Regul), published in UNITED STATES. (Language: eng)

Reference: 1994-Mar; vol 19 (issue 1) : pp 1-11

Dates: Created 1994/06/02; Completed 1994/06/02; Revised 2006/11/15;

PMID: 8167160, status: MEDLINE (last retrieval date: 2/18/2009, IMS Date: )

Sourced from the National Library of Medicine. Abstract text and other information may be subject to copyright.

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