Beats That Ring a Bell: An Investigation on the Effects of Alpha &amp; Delta Binaural Beats on Episodic Memory Consolidation

Neural oscillations are known to underlie the dynamic neural processes related to episodic memory. On the one hand, low-frequency delta waves have been seen to facilitate memory consolidation, while higher frequency alpha waves are associated with more engagement in autobiographical thinking (ABT) which interrupts consolidation. Neural oscillations can be modulated via rhythmic auditory stimulation, also known as binaural beats (BB). Several studies have found that BBs have potential for enhancing cognitive functioning, such as attention and working memory. However, little is known about the efficacy of BB entrainment with regard to episodic memory. In this study, we investigated the effects of listening to alpha (9Hz) and delta (0.5 Hz) BB on episodic memory performance in an old/new recognition task in a within-subjects design. Thirty-six participants underwent three rounds of encoding, each followed by an 8-minute delay during which they listened to either alpha, delta or control...Show moreNeural oscillations are known to underlie the dynamic neural processes related to episodic memory. On the one hand, low-frequency delta waves have been seen to facilitate memory consolidation, while higher frequency alpha waves are associated with more engagement in autobiographical thinking (ABT) which interrupts consolidation. Neural oscillations can be modulated via rhythmic auditory stimulation, also known as binaural beats (BB). Several studies have found that BBs have potential for enhancing cognitive functioning, such as attention and working memory. However, little is known about the efficacy of BB entrainment with regard to episodic memory. In this study, we investigated the effects of listening to alpha (9Hz) and delta (0.5 Hz) BB on episodic memory performance in an old/new recognition task in a within-subjects design. Thirty-six participants underwent three rounds of encoding, each followed by an 8-minute delay during which they listened to either alpha, delta or control BB soundtrack, ending with a recognition test. During BB stimulation, participants also reported the frequency and intensity of ABT. Results showed that listening to alpha and delta BBs did not significantly alter subsequent memory performance, nor did it affect ABT. Additionally, no correlations were found between ABT and memory scores. We discuss limitations to our methods and offer ideas for future research.Show less

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Beats That Ring a Bell: An Investigation on the Effects of Alpha & Delta Binaural Beats on Episodic Memory Consolidation