EEG Asymmetry Characteristics in Relation to Childhood Anxiety Subtypes: A Dimensional Approach

Abstract

Introduction: Right frontal EEG asymmetry has been a commonly neurophysiological marker of anxiety and depressive symptoms throughout development. Method: In the current study, EEG asymmetry measures in frontal and parietal regions were examined as markers for specific subtypes of childhood anxiety disorder (eg, panic, generalized, social, separation, and school avoidance). Results: Notably, panic trait levels were significantly associated with prefrontal and lateral frontal alpha asymmetry, general anxiety was predicted by parietal beta asymmetry measures, and social anxiety levels were associated with mid-frontal alpha and beta asymmetry. School avoidance was significantly correlated with prefrontal and lateral frontal beta asymmetry scores; however, no significant findings were detected relating to separation anxiety which is considered unique to childhood anxiety. Discussion: In all cases, increased anxiety subtype scores related to a rightward shift in asymmetry, signifying this trait as a key neurophysiological marker of childhood anxiety symptoms. Conclusion: Overall, biomarker research of specific subtypes of broad conditions like anxiety could be highly useful for facilitating a deeper understanding of the mechanisms involved, as well as customizing treatment approaches.