Joint factor structure of self-reported cognitive and affective problems in a help-seeking population

Area of Science:

• Neuropsychology
• Psychiatry
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• Self-reported cognitive and affective complaints are vital for diagnosing neuropsychiatric conditions like adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
• These complaints can be influenced by factors beyond measurable cognitive deficits, necessitating validated assessment tools.
• A transdiagnostic approach is employed to better understand these complex self-reported issues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the underlying factor models of self-reported cognitive and affective problems.
• To examine the relationship between these self-reported complaints and objective neuropsychological performance.
• To enhance clinical assessment and understanding of neuropsychiatric conditions.

Main Methods:

• Data from 808 adolescents and adults with self-perceived learning and mental health challenges were analyzed.
• Self-reported cognitive and affective complaints (depression, anxiety) were assessed using the KOMO questionnaire.
• Neuropsychological test data from 70 participants were used to examine correlations with self-reported complaints via factor analyses.

Main Results:

• A general factor model best explained affective complaints, while cognitive complaints exhibited correlated factors.
• Transdiagnostic affective symptoms showed stronger correlations with cognitive complaints (r=.36–.72) than specific depressive symptoms (r=.05–.10).
• Mathematics and visuospatial-visuomotor complaints negatively correlated with neuropsychological performance; attention-executive function complaints unexpectedly positively correlated.

Conclusions:

• The study replicates the transdiagnostic structure of affective problems but finds cognitive complaints do not fit a similar general factor structure.
• Self-reported cognitive issues, especially attention and executive function, are complex and may not be fully captured by self-report alone.
• Comprehensive assessments integrating objective measures are crucial for a thorough understanding of neuropsychiatric conditions.