A neurofeedback video game (MindLight) to prevent anxiety in children: A randomized controlled trial. (October 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Schoneveld, Elke A.; Malmberg, Monique; Lichtwarck-Aschoff, Anna; Verheijen, Geert P.; Engels, Rutger C.M.E.; Granic, Isabela
• Is Part Of: Computers in human behavior. Volume 63(2016)
• Page Start: 321
• Page End: 333
• Publication Date: 2016-10
• Subjects: Anxiety -- Children -- Prevention -- Clinical trial -- Randomized controlled trial -- Video game; Interactive computer systems -- Periodicals; Man-machine systems -- Periodicals; 004.019
• DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2016.05.005
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0747-5632

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Childhood anxiety is a global mental health concern. Interventions are needed that are effective, but also cost less, are more accessible and engage children long enough to build emotional resilience skills through practice. Methods: The present randomized controlled study aimed to examine the prevention effects of a neurofeedback video game, MindLight, developed based on evidence-based practices with anxious youth. Over 750 children (7–13 years old) in elementary schools were screened for elevated anxiety; 136 selected children were randomly assigned to play Mindlight or a control game. Self- and parent-reported anxiety was assessed at pre-, post-intervention and 3-month follow up. Results/conclusions: Intent-to-treat analyses revealed an overall significant reduction in child- and parent-reported anxiety, but the magnitude of improvements did not differ between conditions. Future research comparing MindLight to cognitive-behavioral interventions is suggested, as well as testing a range of specific (e.g., exposure) and non-specific (e.g., expectations, motivation) therapeutic factors as mediators of outcomes.