Evaluating attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder using ecological momentary assessment: a systematic review

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Neurodevelopmental Disorders
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) captures real-world, real-time patient data.
• ADHD diagnosis impacts emotional, behavioral, and functional domains.
• Quality of life is a key consideration in ADHD patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• Evaluate the feasibility of EMA in ADHD studies.
• Assess EMA's utility for emotional and behavioral functioning in ADHD.
• Examine EMA's role in evaluating functional impairments and quality of life in ADHD.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review adhering to PRISMA guidelines.
• Searched literature from January 1, 1990, to May 2018.
• Included 23 eligible studies on ADHD patients.

Main Results:

• EMA methodology is valid for assessing various ADHD aspects.
• Fifteen studies focused on children/adolescents; eight on adults.
• Studies monitored patients for up to 28 days.

Conclusions:

• EMA is successfully implementable for diverse ADHD patient evaluations.
• Further research with longer monitoring periods is needed, especially for adolescents.
• Longer EMA studies can better determine its effectiveness in ADHD.