Neurofeedback Research Proposal

Neurofeedback Research Proposal

Design an experimental study to determine whether neurofeedback can reduce negative mood
In your proposed study, be sure to address the following:

Part 1: Construct Validity ( 6 points)

How will you manipulate your independent variable? In other words, describe the neurofeedback procedure (Hint: Think about operant conditioning.  What will be reinforced?  How will the targeted behavior be reinforced?  What type of reinforcement schedule will you use?  How long will the neurofeedback treatment last?) Will you conduct neurofeedback training under eyes open, eyes closed condition or mental activity conditions? Explain 

How will you measure your dependent variable (s)?  You must have a well-validated self-report measure (i.e. questionnaire or behavioral measure) and a physiological measure.  The self-report measure and physiological measure must be designed to measure the same construct. Remember, the inference problem in psychophysiology?

How will you address the construct validity of your independent variable?

How will you address the construct validity of the EEG measure?  For example, what frequency ranges will you use to filter the data? Using 10/20 international electrode placement system, what will be the location of the active electrodes?  What types of artifacts do you anticipate occurring in the raw EEG record?  How do you propose to deal with potential artifacts?

Part 2 Internal validity (3 points)
What strategies will you used to insure a high degree of internal validity?                     

Part 3: External Validity (1 point)
Describe your target population?
To inform the external validity of your study, what type of demographic information will you collect? 

Part 4: Statistical Validity (Extra credit)-2 points
While you will not have data for this assignment, please describe findings that would support a high degree of statistical validity.

Part 5: References (Point deductions for failure to include references)
Include at least two references using APA citation format