Investigating the effect of alpha/theta neurofeedback on Emotional Intelligence

Electroencephalographic Neurofeedback (NFB) is a brain–computer interface technique that enables individuals to regulate their brain activity, often leading to therapeutic and performance-enhancing outcomes. This study investigated the effects of Alpha/Theta Neurofeedback Training (NFT) on Emotional Intelligence (EI) in a healthy adult population. Fourteen participants were randomly assigned to real and mock training groups and received ۱۰ sessions of Alpha/Theta NFT over three weeks. EI was assessed using the Bar-On Emotional Quotient Inventory before and after the intervention. Results revealed no significant interaction between time and group in EI scores, although a main effect of time was observed (F = ۲۳.۶۰۳, p < ۰.۰۰۱). Within-session analysis showed a significant upward trend in the Theta/Alpha ratio in the real group (Spearman's p = ۰.۹۶۱, p < ۰.۰۵). Additionally, the ability to enhance the Theta/Alpha ratio was positively correlated with pre-training EI scores (Spearman's p = ۰.۹۵۵, p = ۰.۰۰۱). These findings suggest that while ۱۰ sessions of Alpha/Theta NFT may not be sufficient to enhance EI in healthy individuals, baseline EI may predict one's ability to benefit from neurofeedback training.

Keywords:

EEG , Neurofeedback , Emotional Intelligence , Signal processing