Cortical Arousal and Pediatric Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Jennifer Bolden

doi:10.4172/2469-6676.100112

Abstract

While the continued manifestation of Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) symptoms and cognitive impairments are documented well, the underlying physiological processes remain unknown. This review documents research linking arousal to ADHD-related cognitive impairments. Etiological models that attempt to associate arousal to ADHD-related cognitive impairments and behavioral manifestations of the disorder are reviewed. Finally, recommendations for future research will be explored with a particular emphasis on both research and clinical implications.

Highlights

While the continued manifestation of Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) symptoms and cognitive impairments are documented well, the underlying physiological processes remain unknown
Research suggests that Executive Function (EF) deficits may mediate the relationship between ADHD symptoms and grades [11]
To date assessing physiological processes in children with ADHD has proven problematic, as hyperactive pediatric samples are prone to producing motion artifact that may be related to the etiology of ADHD [21]

Summary

Introduction

While the continued manifestation of Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) symptoms and cognitive impairments are documented well, the underlying physiological processes remain unknown. The largest and most comprehensive randomized clinical trial in child and adolescent psychiatry, the Multimodal Treatment Study of Children with Attentiondeficit/hyperactivity disorder (MTA), documents significant and continued impairment in children with ADHD into adulthood across multiple domains of functioning after 16 years despite receiving the most effective treatments available for the [2]. The elevated health risks, social/interpersonal problems, and above-described academic/cognitive impairments are documented well [6], the underlying physiological processes remain unknown [3].

Results

Conclusion