EEG-Based ADHD Diagnosis Using Autoencoder and Reptile Search Algorithm Integrated with Machine Learning
Jayoti Bansal1, Gaurav Gangwar1, Gagandeep Singh2
1Department of Computer Science Engineering, Baba Farid College of Engineering & Technology, Bathinda, India.
Clinical EEG and Neuroscience
|October 29, 2025
Summary
Machine learning applied to electroencephalogram (EEG) data offers a new way to diagnose Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). This study shows Random Forest machine learning models achieve high accuracy for objective ADHD diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Computational Psychiatry
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder impacting cognitive and behavioral functions.
- Current diagnostic methods rely on subjective, time-consuming, and costly assessments like questionnaires and interviews.
- Limitations in traditional ADHD diagnosis hinder early detection and intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a machine learning-based approach for objective ADHD diagnosis using electroencephalogram (EEG) data.
- To compare the efficacy of Random Forest and AdaBoost classifiers in identifying ADHD patterns from EEG signals.
- To enhance feature extraction and selection for improved diagnostic accuracy.
Main Methods:
- Utilized electroencephalogram (EEG) data for ADHD diagnosis.
- Employed Random Forest and AdaBoost machine learning classifiers.
- Implemented Reptile Search Algorithm with an autoencoder for feature extraction and selection.
- Evaluated model performance using accuracy, precision, recall, F1-score, and AUC.
Main Results:
- Random Forest achieved 92.36% accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score, outperforming AdaBoost (89.78%).
- Random Forest demonstrated superior effectiveness in distinguishing ADHD cases with an ROC AUC score of 0.93.
- The machine learning approach showed higher diagnostic accuracy compared to traditional methods.
Conclusions:
- Machine learning applied to EEG data provides a promising, objective, and reliable tool for ADHD diagnosis.
- This method offers an effective alternative to traditional assessments, facilitating timely intervention.
- The findings support the use of advanced computational techniques for improved ADHD diagnosis and management.


