Auditory processing and executive functions in adolescents with ADHD-predominantly inattentive presentation

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Developmental Psychology
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• Adolescents with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder-Predominantly Inattentive Presentation (ADHD-I) often exhibit executive function, sustained attention, and auditory processing deficits.
• This study focuses on evaluating specific auditory processing and attention-related functions in this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess auditory selective attention, reaction time, and auditory processing capabilities in adolescents diagnosed with ADHD-I.
• To compare these auditory functions between adolescents with ADHD-I and age- and sex-matched control groups.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving adolescents aged 12-18 years with ADHD-I and controls.
• Auditory processing was evaluated using a Turkish adaptation of the Auditory Selective Attention Test (ASAT) in monaural and dichotic conditions, measuring accuracy and reaction time (RT).
• Executive functions and symptom severity were assessed using standardized questionnaires (CPRS-R:L, BDEFS-CA, SNAP-IV).

Main Results:

• Adolescents with ADHD-I demonstrated significantly lower accuracy and longer reaction times on the ASAT compared to controls.
• Poorer ASAT performance (accuracy and RT) was correlated with higher scores on measures of inattention, hyperactivity, and executive dysfunction (CPRS-R:L, BDEFS-CA).
• Regression analysis identified inattention (SNAP-IV) as a significant predictor of impaired auditory selective attention.

Conclusions:

• Adolescents with ADHD-I exhibit notable deficits in auditory selective attention and processing.
• The severity of inattention in ADHD-I is linked to reduced auditory discrimination efficiency and increased susceptibility to auditory distractions.
• These preliminary findings highlight the impact of ADHD-I on auditory processing and suggest areas for targeted intervention.