The use of cognitive training and tDCS for the treatment of an high potential subject: a case study

Abstract

Scientific literature has shown how people with ADHD, subjects with High Potential, and with High Levels of Creativity share the same behavioral and cognitive patterns, especially related to some aspects associated with executive functions, such as attentional disorders, impulsivity, and inhibitory control deficit. Several studies have shown how it is possible to improve executive functions by regulating the neuronal activity of the Prefrontal Area. Other researches have obtained equally interesting results through the use of cognitive training and video games, as well as the aim of motivating children and adolescents. This paper presents a clinical case of a high potential adolescent treated through the use of cognitive training with tDCS. The treatment consisted of the use of tDCS associated with cognitive training for 12 sessions. Cognitive battery before starting treatment and at the end of treatment, and trials on executive functions before and after each training session, where administered. The results show an improvement in the cognitive battery and the trials of executive functions, especially in the second part of the training. The results obtained in this work demonstrate how the use of training, associated with tDCS neurostimulation, represents a useful and functional treatment for people with High Potential. The protocol proposed here also lies in the possibility of being used remotely and without the presence of the operators, overcoming the limits of traditional methods.