The Effectiveness of Neurofeedback in Social and Behavioral Skills of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 PhD Student of Psychology, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Educational Sciences and Psychology, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran.

2 Professor of Psychology, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Educational Sciences and Psychology, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran.

Abstract

Introduction: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized by persistent impairments in reciprocal social interaction and communication across multiple contexts, along with restricted, repetitive, and stereotyped behaviors and interests. The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of neurofeedback on the social and behavioral skills of children with ASD.

Method: A single-subject ABA design was employed in this study. The statistical population included all children with ASD referred to the Paya Rehabilitation Center in northern Tehran in October 2019. Two 7-year-old children were selected through purposive sampling and received neurofeedback therapy in 40 sessions of 45 minutes, three times a week. The research instruments were the Social Skills Rating System (SSRS) and the Autism Treatment Evaluation Checklist (ATEC). Data were analyzed using visual inspection and Cohen’s d effect size.

Results: Visual analyses of social skills, behavioral problems, and behavioral deficits indicated the positive effects of neurofeedback on ASD symptoms. In addition, effect size calculations using Cohen’s d confirmed the effectiveness of the intervention during both the treatment and follow-up phases.

Discussion and conclusion: The findings of this study may contribute to more effective treatment planning and clinical interventions aimed at reducing symptoms and improving rehabilitation outcomes in children with ASD.

Keywords

Clinical Psychology and Personality

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 26 August 2025

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