fMRI neurofeedback as a novel treatment for children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

This study is designed for boys aged between 10 and 18 who have a formal diagnosis of ADHD. Participants can either be completely new to ADHD medication or currently taking their normal, steady dose. A general learning ability (IQ) score of 80 or above is also required, which the team can check using standard puzzle and reasoning tests.

The trial is not suitable for boys with certain other conditions, including autism spectrum disorder, bipolar disorder, psychosis, or severe depression. This helps the researchers understand the specific effects of the training on ADHD alone.

Because the training takes place inside an MRI scanner, participants must also be safe to have an MRI. This means they cannot have metal implants, pacemakers, or severe claustrophobia that would make lying inside the scanner uncomfortable.

Taking part lasts around six months and involves approximately seven hospital visits in total. First, you and your child attend an initial assessment to check eligibility, answer questionnaires, and complete some thinking tasks. Next, your child attends four brain-training sessions spread across two weeks. Each scan session lasts about an hour, broken down into short, manageable practice games lasting around 7.5 minutes each.

Participants are randomly placed into one of two groups: one receives active brain training, while the other receives dummy feedback for scientific comparison. Your child can stay on their usual medication, although the team may ask if it is okay to briefly pause it for 24 hours before thinking tests. Finally, there are two follow-up visits—one right after the training and another six months later—to see if any positive changes have lasted.