Does improvement in attention through theta/beta neurofeedback training result in better entry-level vocational task performance in individuals with schizophrenia? An open-label randomised controlled trial.

The presence of cognitive deficits in schizophrenia is unequivocally established. These deficits impact the socio-occupational functioning of the individual. Consequently, enhancing cognitive functions is a key goal of comprehensive treatment approaches. Of late, neurofeedback has shown promise in improving cognitive abilities; however, research in the schizophrenia population remains scarce. The present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of neurofeedback in enhancing speed, accuracy, and productivity on entry-level vocational activities. Thirty-four individuals with schizophrenia underwent 15 sessions of neurofeedback designed to attenuate theta and late beta activities while augmenting early beta activity. A wait-list control group (N = 34) of schizophrenia patients was used for comparison. Results indicated that the neurofeedback group had improved speed, accuracy, and productivity on the entry-level vocational tasks, potentially due to enhanced alertness and attention. Additionally, cognitive assessments also revealed improvements in attention and information processing. These findings suggest that a brief, targeted neurofeedback protocol can enhance vocational task performance in individuals with schizophrenia.