Sequential Prefrontal Alpha-Theta Neurofeedback on Abstinence Self-Efficacy, Mindfulness, and EEG in Alcohol Use Disorder

Effects of Sequential Prefrontal Alpha-Theta Neurofeedback Training on Abstinence Self-Efficacy, Mindfulness, and EEG in Alcohol Use Disorder

This study examined the effects of sequential prefrontal alpha-theta neurofeedback training on abstinence self-efficacy, mindfulness, and brain electroencephalography (EEG) activity in adults with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). Participants in the experimental group received 24 sessions of neurofeedback over 8 weeks (3 sessions per week, 30 minutes per session), while a control group received no intervention. EEG and self-report measures were assessed at baseline and post-intervention.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Adults diagnosed with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM-5) criteria
2. Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test-Korean (AUDIT-K) score >= 20 (males) or >= 10 (females) indicating high-risk drinking
3. Voluntary written informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Sensory impairment (visual or auditory)
2. Diagnosis of intellectual disability
3. Current use of antipsychotics, central nervous system stimulants, or sedatives
4. Active neurological conditions (e.g., epilepsy, recent traumatic brain injury)
5. Severe psychiatric comorbidities (e.g., active psychosis) contraindicated for EEG-based neurofeedback