[The computer as an aid in attention training--a clinico-experimental study]. / Der Computer als Hilfe beim Aufmerksamkeitstraining--Eine klinisch-experimentelle Studie.

Reported is the evaluation of a computer-directed training programme for visual attention, that is based on the results of experimental studies by Zubin (1975) and Shakow (1979). With reference to Zubin's model, this training programme addresses active maintenance of selective visual attention (in terms of "sustained attention"), applying Shakow's diagnostic research paradigm (with a preparatory stimulus, an RT stimulus, and a variable preparatory interval) in a behavioural setting (learning of strategies for attention) for clinical purposes. In a pre-post-study carried out for a three-week programme, the results of single case experiments showed a significant decrease of reaction time variability, which partly persisted in follow-up studies. It was found that attentional performance increased in both psychotic patients and patients with cerebral dysfunction. In the second phase of statistical validation on patients with psychotic attention deviations, both attention performance and transfer effects were verified. The behavioural training methods, which were implemented to foster attention, proved helpful in the majority of cases. For greater practicability, a programme version for use on the home computer has been developed. The study on the whole illustrates the growing utilization of computer technology in neuropsychological rehabilitation.

[Activation and habituation in children and adolescents with mild and severe head injury (author's transl)]. / Untersuchungen zum Aktivierungs- und Habituationsverhalten hirntraumatisch geschädigter Kinder und Jugendlicher unterschiedlichen Schweregrades.

The aim of this study was to analyse the pattern of activation and habituation of youngsters with head injuries depending on the injury's gravity. Nine patients were examined with decerebration after an apallic syndrome; the control group contained ten patients with slight cerebral contusion. The complex test stimulus (optical and acoustical stimulation requiring a reaction) was a phase of a daily, continuous 4-min load with the 'Wiener Determinationsgerät' (Schuhfried). The frequency of heartbeat was registered for 4 (8) days. We analysed the physiological and psychosubjective estimation as well as the psychophysical level of measuring to obtain concrete steps for rehabilitation, depending on the possible interactions. All variables demonstrated a definite distinction between the two groups of patients. Analysis of heartbeat frequency showed that, in spite of similar initial levels of activity, 'initial sensitization' appeared only in the control group; it diminished with habituation and repetition of the stimulus. The descriptive analysis of the HR development in the form of a mathematical exponential function showed that there were three relatively consistent types of reaction: sensitization, habituation, and indifference (nonresponder). The habituation reaction was found only in the control group, indifference only in the group of apallic patients. The analysis of reciprocal action of different levels of measurings shows a certain disorder in the functional systems of the apallic patients, as described by Luria (1976). After the test stimulus the sensomotor and physiological systems do not interact optimally in comparison with patients with slight head injuries. The resulting steps for rehabilitation are discussed.