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Cognitive computer training in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) versus no intervention:
Aida Bikic1,2,3, James F Leckman4, Jane Lindschou5
1Institute of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Winsløwsparken 19, Odense, Denmark. abikic@health.sdu.dk.
Insights
This study investigates ACTIVATE™, a computer program for children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It aims to improve cognitive functions and ADHD symptoms, offering a potential non-pharmacological treatment option.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pediatrics
- Cognitive Psychology
Background:
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with cognitive dysfunctions impacting daily life.
- Pharmacological treatments for ADHD have limitations, with up to 30% non-response and concerns about long-term effects.
- Current cognitive training for ADHD often shows limited generalization to broader cognitive functions and functional outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of the ACTIVATE™ computer program in improving a range of cognitive skills and ADHD symptoms in children.
- To explore a non-pharmacological intervention that targets multiple cognitive functions in pediatric ADHD.
- To assess the impact of cognitive training on cognitive functions, symptoms, and functional outcomes in children with ADHD.
Main Methods:
- A multicenter randomized clinical superiority trial involving 122 children aged 6-13 with ADHD.
- Participants were randomized into an intervention group using ACTIVATE™ (40 min/day, 6 days/week for 8 weeks) or a control group.
- Outcome measures included cognitive functions, ADHD symptoms, and behavioral/functional assessments at baseline, post-intervention, and at 12- and 24-week follow-ups.
Main Results:
- The study is designed to provide data on the effectiveness of the ACTIVATE™ program.
- Results will indicate whether computer-based cognitive training targeting multiple functions can improve outcomes in children with ADHD.
- The trial will assess the generalizability of training effects beyond targeted cognitive skills.
Conclusions:
- Computer training, like ACTIVATE™, holds potential as a supplementary ADHD treatment by addressing cognitive dysfunctions.
- This approach may promote more typical neural development and reduce ADHD symptoms, improving daily functioning and academic performance.
- The findings will inform the development of novel, non-pharmacological interventions for ADHD in children.
Background:
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by symptoms of inattention and impulsivity and/or hyperactivity and a range of cognitive dysfunctions. Pharmacological treatment may be beneficial; however, many affected individuals continue to have difficulties with cognitive functions despite medical treatment, and up to 30 % do not respond to pharmacological treatment. Inadequate medical compliance and the long-term effects of treatment make it necessary to explore nonpharmacological and supplementary treatments for ADHD. Treatment of cognitive dysfunctions may prove particularly important because of the impact of these dysfunctions on the ability to cope with everyday life. Lately, several trials have shown promising results for cognitive computer training, often referred to as cognitive training, which focuses on particular parts of cognition, mostly on the working memory or attention but with poor generalization of training on other cognitive functions and functional outcome. Children with ADHD have a variety of cognitive dysfunctions, and it is important that cognitive training target multiple cognitive functions.
Methods/Design:
This multicenter randomized clinical superiority trial aims to investigate the effect of "ACTIVATE™," a computer program designed to improve a range of cognitive skills and ADHD symptoms. A total of 122 children with ADHD, aged 6 to 13 years, will be randomized to an intervention or a control group. The intervention group will be asked to use ACTIVATE™ at home 40 minutes per day, 6 days per week for 8 weeks. Both intervention and control group will receive treatment as usual. Outcome measures will assess cognitive functions, symptoms, and behavioral and functional measures before and after the 8 weeks of training and in a 12- and 24-week follow-up.
Discussion:
Results of this trial will provide useful information on the effectiveness of computer training focusing on several cognitive functions. Cognitive training has the potential to reduce cognitive dysfunctions and to become a new treatment option, which can promote a more normal neural development in young children with ADHD and thus reduce cognitive dysfunctions and symptoms. This could help children with ADHD to perform better in everyday life and school.
Trial Registration:
ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01752530 , date of registration: 10 December 2012.
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