ThinkSMART®: A pilot study of a transdiagnostic cognitive-behavioral treatment for adolescents with executive functioning weaknesses

Abstract

Executive functions are a broad term used to describe the cognitive functions necessary to help individuals complete tasks and achieve goals. Executive functioning weaknesses are a hallmark feature of psychopathology, particularly in youth. These weaknesses are associated with chronic impairment across academic, social and family domains and do not typically improve into adulthood. Despite these negative outcomes, few behavioral interventions have been successfully developed to target executive functioning outside of ADHD, particularly in adolescents with various types of psychopathology. The thinkSMART® program was created to target the broad heterogeneity of adolescents with executive function weakness. We discuss the rationale for the development of the program, as well as outline the primary skill areas addressed. We also present an open-trial pilot study using the program in adolescents ages 12–17 who identify as having executive functioning weaknesses. Preliminary findings highlight the acceptability and feasibility of the program, as well as the initial efficacy in improving adolescents’ day-to-day executive functioning. We discuss the limitations and benefits of providing broad skills and compensatory strategies to improve adolescent executive functioning.