Conducting Electroencephalography With Black Individuals: Barriers, Recommendations, and Impact on Generalizability

Abstract

Electroencephalography (EEG) is a critical tool for neuroscience research on brain functioning, as well as clinical applications in neurological and psychiatric illnesses. Anti-Black racism is a substantial societal problem that affects the validity of EEG assessments, thereby undermining efforts in research and in medical practice. There are several barriers present in the process of recording EEG with Black individuals. This includes the physical qualities of Black hair; as well as the cultural and historical significance of Black hair, the features of Black hairstyles, and the discomfort that many Black individuals feel if their hair is touched. The potential impact of these barriers on the application of EEG is considerable, including concerns of individual discomfort, lack of generalizability, and misdiagnosis. Recommendations are proposed here to combat these barriers, including individual researchers who utilize EEG methods, funding agencies that support EEG research, and journal editors who publish EEG findings.

The Necessity of Taking Culture and Context into Account When Studying the Relationship between Socioeconomic Status and Brain Development

“…These same systems of racial oppression and structural racism have resulted in a higher distribution of Black families living in lower-income environments [230,231], indicating that rsEEG studies examining socioeconomic differences may not be representative of individuals from diverse racial groups. To promote diversity in the participants recruited for EEG studies, researchers should consider engaging Black researchers in both the development and execution of EEG research, as this has been shown to result in a more positive experience for the participant while also collecting useful data [232][233][234][235]. Providing hair care products that are conducive to Black hair may also promote inclusivity and make the cleanup process less burdensome for participants [233,236].…”

“…To promote diversity in the participants recruited for EEG studies, researchers should consider engaging Black researchers in both the development and execution of EEG research, as this has been shown to result in a more positive experience for the participant while also collecting useful data [232][233][234][235]. Providing hair care products that are conducive to Black hair may also promote inclusivity and make the cleanup process less burdensome for participants [233,236]. Although new organizations such as Black in Neuro (blackinneuro.com) and SPARK Society (sparksociety.org) are conducting foundational work to raise awareness about systemic racism in neuroscience, researchers can also consider ways by which their EEG methods can be revised to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion.…”