THE CONTROL OF ELECTROENCEPHALOGRAPHIC ALPHA RHYTHMS THROUGH AUDITORY FEEDBACK AND THE ASSOCIATED MENTAL ACTIVITY

Twenty-six subjects were given baseline tests for electroencephalographic (EEG) alpha rhythm presence, and then a period of fifteen minutes to gain insight into mental activity associated with alpha presence and absence, while provided with an auditory feedback loop keyed to the presence of alpha. Sixteen of the subjects worked with eyes closed, and ten, with very high initial alpha baseline scores, worked with eyes open. After the fifteen minute practice period permitting control of alpha through feedback, the subjects were given a trial during which they attempted to produce as much alpha as possible and a trial in which they tried to produce as little as possible. The results indicated significant appropriate change for both the generation and suppression trials. Those who were able to control alpha spontaneously reported mental states reflecting relaxation, “letting go,” and pleasant affect associated with maintaining alpha.