The Behavioral Medicine Report

The fundamental design concept of Z score biofeedback [also known as Z-Score neurofeedback] was first introduced in 1998 (Thatcher, 1998; 1999; 2000a; 2000b). The central idea of the instantaneous Z score is the application of the mathematical Gaussian curve or ‘Bell Shaped’ curve by which probabilities can be estimated using the auto and cross-spectrum of the electroencephalogram (EEG) in order to identify brain regions that are de-regulated and depart from expected values in real-time. Linkage of symptoms and complaints to functional localization in the brain is best achieved by the use of a minimum of 19 channels of EEG evaluation so that current source density and LORETA source localization can be computed. Once the linkage is made, then an individualized Z score protocol can be devised. However, in order to make a linkage to symptoms an accurate statistical inference must be made using the Gaussian distribution. (read the full story)