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Performance-based measures and behavioral ratings of executive function in diagnosing attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children

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ADHD Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorders

Abstract

Deficits in real-world executive functioning (EF) are a frequent characteristic of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, the predictive value of using performance-based and behavioral rating measures of EF when diagnosing ADHD remains unclear. The current study investigates the use of performance-based EF measures and a parent-report questionnaire with established ecological validity and clinical utility when diagnosing ADHD. Participants included 21 healthy controls, 21 ADHD—primary inattentive, and 21 ADHD—combined type subjects aged 6–15 years. A brief neuropsychological battery was administered to each subject including common EF assessment measures. Significant differences were not found between groups on most performance-based EF measures, whereas significant differences (p < 0.05) were found on most parent-report behavioral rating scales. Furthermore, performance-based measures did not predict group membership above chance levels. Results further support differences in predictive value of EF performance-based measures compared to parent-report questionnaires when diagnosing ADHD. Further research must investigate the relationship between performance-based and behavioral rating measures when assessing EF in ADHD.

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Correspondence to Alexander Tan.

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Tan, A., Delgaty, L., Steward, K. et al. Performance-based measures and behavioral ratings of executive function in diagnosing attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children. ADHD Atten Def Hyp Disord 10, 309–316 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12402-018-0256-y

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