NCT07793045 · California State University, San Bernardino
Binaural Beats Stimulation for Adults With ADHD
(BBS-ADHD)
What this study is about
This study will evaluate the feasibility and potential effects of a six-week, music-based binaural beats stimulation program in adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Forty adults with ADHD will be randomly assigned to either a binaural beat stimulation group or a control group.
View original scientific description
This study will evaluate the feasibility and potential effects of a six-week, music-based binaural beats stimulation program in adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Forty adults with ADHD will be randomly assigned to either a binaural beat stimulation group or a control group. Both groups will attend 12 supervised listening sessions over six weeks and listen to similar music for 20 minutes per session; however, only the intervention group's music will contain embedded binaural beats. Cognitive assessments will be completed before and after the intervention to evaluate changes in attention and memory. Session attendance and participant retention will also be examined to assess the feasibility and acceptability of the program.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Music-Based Binaural Beats Stimulation
Participants will receive 12 supervised binaural beats stimulation sessions over six weeks, with two sessions conducted per week. During each session, participants will listen through headphones to 20 minutes of music containing embedded binaural beats. Music will be selected based on each participant's preferred genre from available options.
BEHAVIORAL
Music Listening Without Binaural Beats
Participants will receive 12 supervised music-listening sessions over six weeks, with two sessions conducted per week. During each session, participants will listen through headphones to 20 minutes of music without embedded binaural beats. The music, listening duration, session schedule, setting, and available genre options will be similar to those provided to the experimental group.
Primary outcome measures
Intervention Feasibility
Time frame: Throughout the six-week intervention
Feasibility will be evaluated using the numbers of participants screened, eligible, and enrolled; the proportion of enrolled participants who complete the intervention and post-intervention assessments; and the number and percentage of the 12 scheduled listening sessions completed by each participant.
Participant Acceptability
Time frame: Throughout the six-week intervention
Acceptability will be assessed during each intervention session by documenting changes in health status, perceived positive or negative effects, and any discomfort or concerns. After each session, participants will rate their enjoyment on a 5-point scale ranging from 1 (not at all enjoyable) to 5 (extremely enjoyable) and provide open-ended feedback about their mood, emotions, relaxation, and other perceived effects. Responses will be summarized descriptively.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Adults aged 18 to 55 years
- Previous diagnosis of ADHD made by a qualified healthcare professional and ADHD diagnosis supported by the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS-v1.1)
- Willing to wear headphones during the listening sessions
- Able and willing to attend 12 listening sessions conducted twice weekly over six weeks -
Exclusion criteria
- Anticipated absence from the study area for more than seven days during the two-month study period
- Uncorrectable hearing impairment that would prevent adequate delivery of music through headphones
- Acute psychiatric condition, such as depression
- Intellectual or developmental disability that could interfere with study participation
- Acute medical condition resulting in sensory impairment
- Initiation of, or a change in dosage of, stimulant, antipsychotic, or analgesic medication within the previous month
- Anticipated change in stimulant, antipsychotic, or analgesic medication during the study period
Where
- San Bernardino, California
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Aug 28, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations