CompletedNot Applicable

Neurofeedback and Nomophobia in Young Adults

Spain40 participantsStarted 2024-04-01

Plain-language summary

Introduction: Given the growing increase in addiction to social networks and smartphone use in young people and its implications for health, it is necessary to investigate effective interventions for the appropriate use of these technologies and coping with possible signs of addiction. Objective: To evaluate the effect of an intervention based on neurofeedback techniques on anxiety and other disorders associated with problematic use of mobile phones and the internet in young adults. Methodology: Randomised controlled clinical trial with two parallel groups: an intervention group (IG) and a control group (CG). The study population will be young adults aged 18-30 years. A sample size of 40 participants has been estimated, 20 in each group to detect a difference of 3.9 points or more on the DASS-21 anxiety questionnaire. All participants will receive an educational workshop on the responsible use of new technologies and the promotion of healthy lifestyles. The IG, in addition to this educational workshop, will receive 25 neurofeedback sessions during 12 weeks, 2-3 sessions/week with the MUSE neurofeedback device. A baseline and 3-month post-intervention assessment will be conducted for both groups to study change variables related to smartphone addiction (Smartphone Addiction Scale-Short Version (SAS-SV)), nomophobia (Nomophobia Questionnaire (NMP-Q)), depression, anxiety and stress (Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale 21-item (DASS-21)) and sleep quality.

Who can participate

Age range

18 Years – 30 Years

Sex

ALL

See this in plain English?

AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.

Inclusion Criteria: * Have one or more mobile devices such as smartphones. * Have a compatible mobile device to install and use the Muse: EEG Meditation \& Sleep application. * Be fully functional. * Willingness to voluntarily participate in the study and sign the informed consent form. Exclusion Criteria: * History of severe psychiatric disorders (such as schizoaffective disorders, bipolar disorder, major depressive episode with symptoms or other non-organic psychotic disorders) requiring psychiatric treatment in the 6 months prior to study entry. * History of brain injury or other problems contraindicating the use of neurofeedback.

Questions worth asking your doctor

Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.

1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?

Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.

Questions for the trial coordinator

The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.

1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?

A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.

What they're measuring

Anxiety

Timeframe: Baseline, 3-months

Trial details

NCT IDNCT06188910

SponsorUniversity of Salamanca

Sponsor typeOTHER

Study typeINTERVENTIONAL

Primary completion2024-12-31

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