ATICA Project

Cognitive Training in Children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Attentional skills provide the foundation for cognitive development and educational achievement. Attentional difficulties are a core feature of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and have been linked with poor long-term consequences. We know that early intervention to strengthening attention in children with ADHD is vital to improving learning capacity and academic outcomes.

The Monash School of Psychological Sciences are interested in understanding whether a game-based cognitive training program can strengthen attention in children who have ADHD.

Who can be involved?

We are looking for children aged 5-8 years with a diagnosis of ADHD who:

• Are English speaking
• Do not have a history of major trauma
• Do not have a diagnosed intellectual disability
• Have no other genetic or biological conditions (e.g. Fragile X, fetal alcohol syndrome)
• Have not previously participated in a study of a cognitive training program
• Do not have a sibling also enrolled in this study
• Do not have visual, hearing of physical impairments that would prevent them from engaging with the intervention

What’s involved?

Participation in the present study will involve two phases.

Phase 1

Initially parents will complete some eligibility and demographic questionnaires. A cognitive assessment may be offered to your child at this stage if required.

Phase 2

Your child will complete a game-based cognitive training intervention at home for a period of 5 weeks, as well as attending three sessions at either Monash University or the family home to measure changes in attention, memory and social functioning. Parents will also be asked to complete questionnaires at these sessions.

ATICA Project Flyer

Explanatory Statement for Parents/Guardians of Participants