RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL EXAMINING THE IMPACT OF BIOFEEDBACK TRAINING ON FRONTAL ALPHA ASYMMETRY IN PATIENTS WITH BORDERLINE PERSONALITY DISORDER

Abstract

Introduction: Borderline Personality Disorder is characterized by persistent instability in emotions, relationships, and behavior leading to significant distress and impairment. This study investigates the efficacy of biofeedback training in modulating frontal alpha asymmetry and improving emotional regulation in BPD patients.

Methodology: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 50 adults diagnosed with BPD. Participants were assigned to either a standard treatment group (Group A) or a group receiving additional biofeedback training (Group B). EEG sensors measured brainwave patterns, focusing on frontal alpha asymmetry. The study spanned 8 weeks, with biofeedback training conducted in 10 sessions.

Results: Group B showed significant improvements in frontal alpha asymmetry (M = 0.042, SD =0.011) compared to Group A (M= 0.087, SD = 0.015), with a t-value of 6.23 (p< 0.001).Group B had significantly lower mean DERS scores (M =49.7, SD = 4.2) compared to Group A (M = 56.4, SD = 3.8), with t-value of 4.67(p< 0.001). However, the comparison of Borderline Personality Severity Index Scale (BPSIS) scores between the two groups yielded non-significant results, with t-value of 1.98 (p=0.053).

Conclusion: Biofeedback training effectively enhances emotional regulation and modulates brain activity in BPD patients but does not significantly impact overall symptom severity. Future research should explore integrated treatment approaches.