The goal of the current project is to assess the efficacy of Central Executive Training (CET) for youth with ADHD. Consistent with NIMH Strategic Objective #3 and the NIH (1998) Consensus Statement on ADHD, our R34 developed CET to translate clinical neurocognitive findings into a novel clinical protocol that affects ADHD behavioral symptoms by targeting central processes. The final, computerized CET protocol reflects the contributions and feedback of a diverse group of caregivers, children with ADHD, and recognized experts in human cognition, ADHD treatment research, RCT intervention design methods, serious game theory and task design, cognitive training, and the role of executive dysfunction in ADHD. Pilot data suggest considerable promise for improving working memory and ADHD symptoms among youth with ADHD. The current project will provide a rigorous test of CET relative to an active, credible comparator (ACC). ACC was also developed during the R34, and is identical to CET in all regards except the proposed mechanism of action (training central executive working memory).

Public Health Relevance

The goal of the current project is to assess the efficacy of Central Executive Training (CET) for youth with ADHD. CET is a new, computerized training intervention that targets specific components of the working memory system. CET and the active, credible comparator (ACC) were developed as part of our R34. The final CET protocol reflects the contributions and feedback of a diverse group of caregivers, children with ADHD, and recognized experts in human cognition, ADHD treatment research, RCT intervention design methods, serious game theory and task design, cognitive training, and the role of executive dysfunction in ADHD.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Type
Research Project (R01)
Project #
5R01MH115048-04
Application #
10056225
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZMH1)
Program Officer
Haim, Adam
Project Start
2017-12-01
Project End
2022-11-30
Budget Start
2020-12-01
Budget End
2021-11-30
Support Year
4
Fiscal Year
2021
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Florida State University
Department
Psychology
Type
Schools of Arts and Sciences
DUNS #
790877419
City
Tallahassee
State
FL
Country
United States
Zip Code
32306