[B]Videogames are often [URL=http://www.avantnews.com/news/269239-effort-underway-to-improve-short-attention-spans-of-americans]cited[/URL] as a symptom of an attention-addled culture. But a new technology is using games to help children and adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.[/B]

The technology is called Play Attention, and recent research at the University of Hertfordshire in Britain suggests it can be effective in training students to focus.

The Play Attention system consists of a helmet that monitors EEG waves in the brain. The helmet is connected to a PC, which also serves up a videogame. As long as the subject concentrates, they are able to control the game, but when their attention wavers, the game stops.

Ten local children were part of a pilot study that had them use the Play Attention system three times a week for 12 weeks. At the end of the study, children who used the Play Attention exhibited better control of impulsive behavior.

"Attention-related difficulties, including ADHD affects many children, young people and adults and has a significant impact on their lives," said Ian Glasscock, Managing Director of Games for Life and a collaborator on the study. "Mind-controlled educational computer games technology is the only intervention shown to reduce the core symptoms of ADHD, historically medication may have been prescribed for the child."

Play Attention is set to debut in schools across Britain this month.

Speaking of limited attention spans, TV's "Barney Miller" alum Max Gail (Wojciehowicz) talks about how Play Attention helped his 16-year-old son. The video is eight minutes long, a challenge to anyone's ability to concentrate.

[URL=http://www.gameculture.com/2010/01/08/new-technology-gets-adhd-sufferers-quotplay-attentionquot]read more[/URL]

[url=http://www.gameculture.com/2010/01/08/new-technology-gets-adhd-sufferers-quotplay-attentionquot]More...[/url]