<p>Beta occurs from local groups of pyramidal neurons synchronize; beta&nbsp; is a cortico-cortical frequency (which means its origin is the bark of the brain, the cortex). Beta ranges from Beta 1 (12-15Hz) Beta 2 (15-18Hz), Beta 3(18-25Hz), and High Beta (25-30 Hz) (some cap beta as high as 40Hz). Beta predominantly occurs in the frontocentral areas of the brain, usually with an amplitude of 30µV or less and is symmetrical This is the brainwave of our normal waking consciousness and encompasses all executive functioning, such as making plans, acting, and problem-solving. Beta II is at work much of the time that we are processing details, comprehending, and making meaning. Beta III is shown during periods of high focus and engagement. When pathological, beta often appears in high amplitude, often indicating stress, anxiety, fear, and worry. It is beta that allows us to determine what makes us up, who we are, what we believe in (and do not believe in), and all other components of our identity. It might be argued that the other frequencies inform our ego state (and they do), but our primary mode of thought is in beta. Individuals with too much high amplitude beta are often those suffering from neurological conditions. Wise (1995) noted that “excessive amounts of beta can lead to great psychological discomfort” (p. 3).</p><p>Beta is active thought, active thinking. This signature suggests a brain that is having difficulty calming down—there are indications of an hyperaroused or hyperalert state. Of particular interest is the right frontotemporal&nbsp; cortex; it appears this is the origin of the high amplitude fast wave activity.&nbsp; This area contains most of the dopamine sensitive neurons in the human cortex, which are associated with reward, attention, planning, motivation, and short term memory. It is bordered from behind with the pre-central gyrus, containing the primary motor cortex, an area responsible for voluntary body movements.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><img src="@@PLUGINFILE@@/anxiety-eeg-amplitude.png" alt="Anxiety as seen in the EEG via high amplitude beta (raw data)" width="1022" height="919" class="img-responsive atto_image_button_text-bottom"><br></p><p style="text-align: center;">Figure : Anxiety as seen in the EEG via high amplitude beta (raw data)<br></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br></p><p style="text-align: center;"><img src="@@PLUGINFILE@@/qeeg-signifying%20anxiety.png" alt="qEEG for High Amplitude Beta signifying anxiety" width="703" height="932" class="img-responsive atto_image_button_text-bottom"><br></p><p style="text-align: center;">Figure : qEEG for High Amplitude Beta signifying anxiety<br></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br></p>