Walden University 2012
Walden Universit y COLLEGE OF SOCIAL AND BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES This is to certify that the doctoral dissertation by Michael Lucido has been found to be complete and satisfactory in all respects, and that any and all revisions required by the review committee have been made. Review Committee Dr. Lisa Scharff, Committee Chairperson, Psychology Faculty Dr. Patricia Loun, Committee Member, Psychology Faculty Dr. Brian Ragsdale, University Reviewer, Psychology Faculty Chief Academic Officer Eric Riedel, Ph.D. Walden University 2012 Abstract Effects of Neurofeedback on Neuropsychological Functioning in an Adult with Autism by Michael J. Lucido M.A., University of Detroit Mercy, 2003 B.A., University of Detroit Mercy, 2001 Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Psychology Walden University May 2012 Abstract Autism spectrum condition (ASC) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that impacts physiological processes, cognition, functional behaviors, social-communication, and often has comorbidities. One approach gaining empirical support for ASC treatment is neurofeedback. Neurofeedback uses operant conditioning to normalize cerebral activity through auditory and visual reinforcement. Live Z-score Training (LZT) has become the latest advancement in neurofeedback. There is no published research to date on LZT neurofeedback in adulthood ASC. The purpose of this study was to evaluate LZT’s impact on neuropsychological measures in an adult with ASC. A multiple baseline single-case research design was used with a convenience sample of one adult with ASC to evaluate the effects of 20 LZT sessions using the Conservative Dual Criterion visual inspection method as the primary form analysis. ADHD, mood stability, anxiety, depression, and ASC symptoms were significantly reduced according to the Neuropsych Questionnaire.
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