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Dimensional attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms and executive functioning in adolescence: A
Laila Ketvel1, Eero Vuoksimaa2, Lea Pulkkinen3
1Department of Psychiatry, Division of Digital and Psychosocial Treatments, Helsinki University Hospital.
Neuropsychology
|November 18, 2024
Summary
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms in adolescents are linked to executive function (EF) challenges, particularly inattention noted by teachers. Familial factors partially explain these associations, highlighting the importance of dimensional ADHD symptom assessment.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Psychology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- Executive function (EF) is crucial for cognitive control and behavior regulation in adolescents.
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is characterized by inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity, impacting academic and social functioning.
- Understanding the interplay between ADHD symptoms and EF is vital for early identification and intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the relationship between adolescent executive function (EF) and dimensional symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity.
- To determine if familial factors, depressive disorder, or conduct disorder symptoms mediate these associations.
- To investigate ADHD symptoms using both dimensional and categorical (DSM) approaches in a population-based sample.
Main Methods:
- A population-based sample of 14-year-old twins (N=638-1,227) from the FinnTwin12 study participated.
- Executive function was assessed using standard neuropsychological tests.
- ADHD and other psychiatric disorder symptoms were evaluated via semistructured interviews and multi-informant behavioral ratings (self, co-twin, parents, teachers) at ages 12 and 14.
Main Results:
- Teacher-rated inattention showed the most consistent association with poorer EF performance across different teachers and time points.
- These associations remained significant even after controlling for depressive and conduct disorder symptoms.
- Within-twin pair analyses indicated that familial factors partially accounted for the links between inattention/hyperactivity-impulsivity and EF.
Conclusions:
- ADHD symptoms, even at subclinical levels in the general adolescent population, are associated with impaired EF.
- Teacher assessments of ADHD symptoms are particularly informative for evaluating adolescent EF.
- The findings support a dimensional view of ADHD symptoms within the broader population.
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