Article

We report the effects of a computer-based neuropsychological training
in children with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). We hypothesized
that a specific training focusing on attentional dysfunction would result in an
improvement of inattention, observable in test performance, behavior and
performance during experimental school lessons and in parent and teacher ratings
of the related core symptom. METHOD: We chose a within-subject-control-design
with a 4 week baseline period and subsequent 12 to 15 weekly training-sessions.
30 children (6 to 13 years old) with a diagnosis of ADHD (ICD 10: F 90.0) and no
other comorbidities participated in the study. RESULTS: The training revealed
significant improvement in training parameters of the neuropsychological training
and in the symptoms of inattention and deportment as rated during experimental
school lessons. However, generalization of training effects as measured by parent
and teacher ratings was not detected. CONCLUSIONS: We conclude that
neuropsychological training could be helpful as one adjunct module in the complex
treatment of ADHD but to prove clinical value, similar training programs must
focus more strongly on individually existing neuropsychological deficits.
Training programs should be more intensive and should eventually be combined with
home based training access.

Langue : ANGLAIS