Executive function in children with neurodevelopmental conditions: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience and Developmental Psychology
• Investigates executive function (EF) in pediatric neurodevelopmental conditions (NDCs).
• Focuses on transdiagnostic features and moderating factors of EF delays.

Background:

• Executive function (EF) delays are frequently observed in children with neurodevelopmental conditions (NDCs).
• The transdiagnostic nature of EF delays across various NDCs remains debated.
• Understanding these delays is crucial for targeted interventions and developmental science.

Approach:

• Systematic review and meta-analysis of 180 studies comparing EF in NDCs.
• Included studies with at least two NDC comparisons on EF measures across seven domains.
• Analyzed moderating effects of gender, age, publication year, DSM editions, and assessment types.

Key Points:

• EF delay is a transdiagnostic feature of NDCs, with a moderate effect size (g=0.56).
• Effect size increased with comorbidities, DSM-5 criteria, and informant measures.
• Children with tic disorders (TD) showed smaller delays; ADHD showed larger delays in specific domains; ASD showed greater set-switching delays.

Conclusions:

• Findings support transdiagnostic models of neurodevelopment.
• EF delays are a shared characteristic across NDCs, impacting brain circuitry and functioning.
• This research aids in developing early interventions and improving outcomes for children with NDCs.