The Significance of an Abnormal Electroencephalogram

ATTENTION has recently been focused upon the occurrence of abnormalities in the electro-encephalogram (e.e.g.) of apparently normal subjects, and upon the high incidence of these abnormalities in subjects with behaviour disturbances and in other members of their families. Davis (1941) analysed the variations in the e.e.g. of groups of normal subjects and the abnormalities in wave form and frequency which she found in epileptic and psychotic patients. Similarly Lindsley and Cutts (1940) measured the number of waves in different frequency bands in small groups of normal adults and children, and in groups of children considered to be " constitutionally inferior " or presenting definite behaviour problems. Previously Jasper, Solomon, and Bradley (1938) had studied the abnormalities seen in the e.e.g. of behaviour problem children, while Hoagland, Cameron, and Rubin (1937), and Davis and Davis (1939) showed that a relatively high proportion of psychotic, especially schizophrenic, patients had abnormal e.e.g.'s.