Validating Embedded Validity Indicators of Feigned ADHD-Associated Cognitive Impairment Using the MOXO-d-CPT

Area of Science:

• Psychological assessment
• Neuropsychology
• Clinical psychology

Background:

• The MOXO-d-CPT is a continuous performance test used in ADHD diagnosis.
• Established validity indicators require validation for clinical utility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To validate previously established validity indicators from the MOXO-d-CPT.
• To assess the discriminative capacity of these indicators in distinguishing simulated impairment from genuine ADHD.

Main Methods:

• Healthy participants (simulators) were coached to feign impairment using online information.
• Simulators were compared to individuals diagnosed with ADHD and healthy controls.
• The MOXO-d-CPT and a feigned ADHD scale were administered to all groups.

Main Results:

• Simulators performed significantly worse than ADHD patients across all MOXO-d-CPT indices and the feigned ADHD scale.
• Three MOXO-d-CPT indices (attention, hyperactivity, impulsivity) and the feigned ADHD scale showed adequate discriminative capacity.
• Higher education levels in simulators correlated with exaggerated impairment, facilitating detection.

Conclusions:

• The study provides initial validation for the MOXO-d-CPT's embedded validity indicators.
• These indicators demonstrate efficacy in detecting feigned ADHD symptoms.
• Further research is needed to generalize findings to diverse populations beyond highly functioning individuals.