Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 16, 2026
10:58
Multimedia Battery for Assessment of Cognitive and Basic Skills in Mathematics (BM-PROMA)
Published on: August 28, 2021
Attentional networks in developmental dyscalculia.
Sarit Askenazi1, Avishai Henik
1Department of Psychology and Zlotowski Center for Neuroscience Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel. ashkenas@bgu.ac.il
Behavioral and Brain Functions : BBF
|February 17, 2010
Summary
Individuals with developmental dyscalculia exhibit specific attention deficits, particularly in alertness and executive function networks. These findings highlight challenges in attention recruitment beyond numerical processing difficulties.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Psychology
- Developmental Psychology
Background:
- Limited understanding of attention deficits in developmental dyscalculia.
- Developmental dyscalculia is a specific learning disability in mathematics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate attention network functioning in individuals with developmental dyscalculia.
- To identify specific attention deficits associated with developmental dyscalculia.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the Attention Networks Test-Interactions (ANT-I) with 14 university students diagnosed with developmental dyscalculia and 14 matched controls.
- Assessed mathematical abilities, reading, attention, and intelligence through preliminary tests.
Main Results:
- Developmental dyscalculia participants showed deficits in the alerting network (larger alerting effect) and executive function network (larger congruity effect).
- Slower response times were observed in non-cued conditions for individuals with developmental dyscalculia.
- Group differences modulated the interaction between alerting and executive function networks.
Conclusions:
- Pure developmental dyscalculia is associated with specific deficits in executive function and alertness attention networks.
- Individuals with developmental dyscalculia experience difficulties in recruiting attention, in addition to numerical processing challenges.
Related Concept Videos
01:25Learning Disabilities
Learning disabilities are cognitive disorders caused by neurological impairments that affect cognitive functions like language and reading, without indicating overall intellectual or developmental challenges. These disabilities differ from global intellectual or developmental disabilities as they are limited to distinct cognitive functions. Common learning disabilities include dysgraphia, dyslexia, and dyscalculia, each of which impacts unique aspects of learning.
Dyslexia
Dyslexia is a...
Dyslexia
Dyslexia is a...
01:30Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects approximately 5-8% of children globally, with around 60-70% of cases persisting into adulthood. ADHD has significant implications for educational attainment, social interactions, and occupational success.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
01:30Information Processing Approach
The information-processing theory of cognitive development centers on fundamental mental processes, including attention, memory, and problem-solving skills. Researchers in this field examine how cognitive abilities, such as working memory, evolve and influence children's overall development. Studies indicate that children with stronger working memory tend to excel in reading comprehension, math, and problem-solving compared to peers with less efficient memory skills. Low working memory is also...