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,...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
Previous research has found that Autobiographical Thinking (ABT) affects memory consolidation and can be linked to Alpha- and Slow/Delta range brain oscillations. Binaural beats might therefore be...Show morePrevious research has found that Autobiographical Thinking (ABT) affects memory consolidation and can be linked to Alpha- and Slow/Delta range brain oscillations. Binaural beats might therefore be an effective way of improving memory consolidation. The aim of the current study was to assess the effects of binaural beats stimulation on ABT and memory consolidation. 37 participants performed a face encoding task where they judged faces as either friendly or unfriendly. Subsequently, participants experienced 8 minutes of Alpha (9Hz) binaural beat stimulation, Slow/Delta (0.5Hz) binaural beat stimulation, or Control (pink-noise) stimulation. Twice during these 8 minutes, we asked participants to indicate what percentage of time they spend engaged in ABT, and how intense these thoughts were. Memory for each set of faces was subsequently tested in an old/new recognition memory test. Our data did not suggest any significant relation between binaural beats, ABT and memory performance. Alpha range binaural beats were however related with more intense ABT. Notwithstanding the limitations of the current study, it can be concluded that binaural beats might not be a feasible intervention to enhance consolidation of episodic memory. Further research could clarify whether other types of memory do benefit from binaural beats stimulation.Show less
