INTERSTAARS: Attention training for infants with elevated likelihood of developing ADHD: A proof-of-concept...

Area of Science:

• Developmental neuroscience
• Pediatric psychology
• Clinical trial methodology

Background:

• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is typically diagnosed in middle childhood.
• Early intervention strategies are being explored to strengthen cognitive development before diagnosis.
• Pre-emptive approaches may offer an alternative to traditional post-diagnostic interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of computerised gaze-based attention training in infants at high risk for ADHD.
• To determine if this training improves attention skills in infants with a familial predisposition to ADHD.
• To evaluate the potential of early, pre-emptive interventions for ADHD.

Main Methods:

• A proof-of-concept randomised controlled trial (RCT) involving 43 infants (9-16 months old) with a first-degree relative with ADHD.
• Infants were randomised to receive 9 weekly sessions of either gaze-contingent attention training or passive video viewing (control).
• Outcomes were assessed using a composite of attention measures, with intention-to-treat and complier-average-causal effect analyses.

Main Results:

• Good uptake and compliance were observed for the attention training intervention.
• No significant differences were found between the intervention and control groups on primary or secondary attention outcomes.
• No adverse effects on infant sleep were noted, though a slight increase in fussiness occurred post-session.

Conclusions:

• Computerised gaze-based attention training is feasible for infants at risk of ADHD.
• The study did not find evidence of short-term efficacy for this intervention in improving attention skills.
• Further research is needed to assess longer-term outcomes and refine pre-emptive ADHD intervention strategies.