Perspectives on heterogeneity-informed cognitive training for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder

Abstract

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (AD/HD) is a heterogeneous neurodevelopmental condition, posing a severe threat to quality of life. Pharmacological therapies are the front-line treatment; however, their shortages encourage the development of alternative treatments for AD/HD. One promising method of developing alternative treatments is cognitive training (CT). A CT-based therapy was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration. However, due to heterogeneity in AD/HD, a CT protocol is unlikely to provide a one-size-fits-all solution for all patients with AD/HD. Therefore, this article highlights key aspects that need to be considered to further develop CT protocols for AD/HD, regarding training content, timing, suitability, and delivery mode. The perspectives presented here contribute to optimizing CT as an alternative option for treating AD/HD.

Remote neurocognitive interventions for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder – Opportunities and challenges

“…Another question in previous studies is about using uniform training content for all individuals, despite the marked heterogeneity of neurocognitive deficits in those with AD/HD (Nigg et al, 2020). A more effective approach may involve tailoring training content to individual neurocognitive profiles (for a comprehensive discussion on this topic, refer to Zhang, 2023). Further, although representative tasks present the best tools for taxing EF and sustained attention, they are also susceptible to task impurities; for example, each EF task includes non-EF cognitive processing (Miyake et al, 2000).…”