Time-Perception Deficits in Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Background:

• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder.
• Deficits in time perception are a commonly reported symptom in ADHD.
• Understanding the lifespan trajectory and moderators of these deficits is crucial for effective interventions.

Approach:

• A comprehensive meta-analysis was conducted, synthesizing 824 effect sizes related to time perception in ADHD.
• Moderator analyses examined the influence of age, working memory, and ADHD subtype.
• The study analyzed data from both pediatric and adult ADHD populations.

Key Points:

• A significant mean effect size (g = 0.688) indicates a consistent deficit in time perception in individuals with ADHD.
• Working memory deficits were significantly associated with impaired time perception in individuals under 18.
• ADHD subtype emerged as a significant moderator only in adults (18 and above).

Conclusions:

• The findings underscore a pervasive time perception deficit in ADHD throughout development.
• Age-related differences in the moderators of time perception deficits highlight the need for tailored interventions.
• Future research should explore the neurobiological underpinnings and refine remediation strategies for time perception in ADHD.