When a group of neurons fires in synchrony there is an electrical wavelike effect, hence the term brain wave . There are two main brain wave patterns that affect Attention-Deficit Disorder. Each of the brain waves or rhythms can be connected to a particular behavior state and each of which relates to the attentional process. Theta waves represent rhythmic slow activity. They are usually seen when we are awake but not focusing on anything specific, such as daydreaming.
Beta waves are fast waves.
They represent active concentration and deep thinking. The attentional process can be monitored by evaluating the beta and theta waves. This evaluation takes place in the neurofeedback training when the electrodes are placed on specific areas of the head and a readout of the brain activity is presented on a computer screen. The amount of beta activity can then be compared to the amount of theta activity. Since the higher frequency beta waves represent focused attention, the desire is to increase the beta waves while decreasing the theta activity.