A-045 Sluggish Cognitive Tempo in Youth: An Examination of Executive Functioning and Self-Reported Internalizing Symptoms

Abstract

Abstract Objective Sluggish cognitive tempo (SCT) is a group of attention-related symptoms that are characterized by slowed behavior and thinking, excessive daydreaming, mental confusion or fogginess, and drowsiness.4 Studies have shown that SCT is related to higher rates of anxiety, depression, and social isolation.4 Additionally, recent publications have indicated that aspects of executive functioning (EF) may be impacted in children with SCT.2,5 Meta-analysis confirmed that most SCT research has focused on parent and teacher report.1,3,4 There is an increased need for studies examining SCT with self-report.5 This study will examine how SCT is related to EF and self-reported internalizing symptoms in youth with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Method Participants were youth aged 8 to 18-years with ADHD (N = 130) referred for neuropsychological testing. Participant demographics: males (N = 82, 63.1%). Measures included the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children/Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WISC-V/WAIS-IV) Processing Speed Index (PSI), Conners Continuous Performance Test (CPT) Hit Reaction Time (HRT), Delis-Kaplan Executive Function System Color Word Identification (CWI) and Tower subtests, Behavior Assessment Systems for Children (BASC) self-report scales, and Personality Assessment Inventory-Adolescent (PAI-A) scales. Results Bivariate correlations showed that the PSI was significantly correlated with CWI Inhibition (r = 0.52, p < .01), CWI Inhibition/Switching (r = 0.53, p < .01), Tower (r = −0.20, p < .05), and Social Isolation (r = −0.19, p < .05), with Depression approaching significance (p = .06). The CPT HRT was also significantly correlated with CWI Inhibition (r = −0.19, p < .05) and CWI Inhibition/Switching (r = −0.22, p < .05), with Depression approaching significance (p = .05). Conclusions SCT is associated with EF and self-reported internalizing symptoms and should be included when considering interventions.