Face processing in ADHD: A review of the N170 event-related potential.

Abstract

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is associated with deficits in social functioning, including peer difficulties and poor relationship quality. Little is known, however, about the integrity of foundational sociocognitive abilities that support interpersonal interactions in ADHD. Face processing—a fundamental component of social cognition—has been a popular topic of recent investigations in this area. Researchers have attempted to delineate face processing mechanisms in ADHD to elucidate social deficits often seen in the disorder. Investigating the N170 event-related potential, a neural marker of face processing, has been a popular approach in this endeavour. Here, we present two accounts that offer competing views of how social deficits might arise in those with ADHD. Next, we systematically review and synthesise the literature on the N170 in ADHD to identify whether atypicalities in sociocognitive domains like face processing occur in this patient population. Gaps in the literature are identified and concrete solutions are offered to improve future research in this area. We end by discussing immediate implications for treatment approaches designed to address widely observed social deficits in individuals with ADHD.