Short-Form, Comedy Improv Affects the Functional Connectivity in the Brain of Adolescents with Complex Developmental Trauma as Measured by qEEG: A Single Group Pilot Study

Complex developmental trauma (CDT) is characterized by prolonged exposure to traumatic events in early life, resulting the breakdown of neurobiological integration which impacts mental and physical health. The benefits practicing short-form improvisation (improv), however, parallel treatment needs this population. To observe effect improv, we used eyes-open quantitative electroencephalography (qEEG) record brains 32 adolescents before after participation a 20-min intervention (One Rule Improv) consisting improv games. A paired t-test was evaluate coherence, phase, absolute amplitude, low-resolution electromagnetic tomography (LORETA). Results indicated increases coherence delta, theta, alpha, beta (p < .05). Phase lag showed statistical decrease .05) beta. Absolute power significant alpha frontally Fp1 = .004), decreases delta .030) at T4. LORETA analysis changes sensorimotor rhythm (SMR) Brodmann area (BA) 6, t(27) 6.1, p .05. Significant decreased BA 10, 4.96, .05; 24, 3.90. 4, 3, 40, 4.35, indicate preliminary evidence supporting as an capable affecting functional connectivity with CDT. For trauma, these results may improved capacity make meaningful connections others create opportunities for neuroplastic changes.