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Variability of attention processes in ADHD: observations from the classroom.

Authors :
Rapport MD
Kofler MJ
Alderson RM
Timko TM Jr
Dupaul GJ
Source :
Journal of attention disorders [J Atten Disord] 2009 May; Vol. 12 (6), pp. 563-73. Date of Electronic Publication: 2009 Mar 02.
Publication Year :
2009

Abstract

Objective: Classroom- and laboratory-based efforts to study the attentional problems of children with ADHD are incongruent in elucidating attentional deficits; however, none have explored within- or between-minute variability in the classroom attentional processing in children with ADHD.<br />Method: High and low attention groups of ADHD children defined via cluster analysis, and 36 typically developing children, were observed while completing academic assignments in their general education classrooms.<br />Results: All children oscillated between attentive and inattentive states; however, children in both ADHD groups switched states more frequently and remained attentive for shorter durations relative to typically developing children.<br />Conclusion: Overall differences in attention and optimal ability to maintain attention among the groups are consistent with laboratory studies of increased ADHD-related interindividual and intergroup variability but inconsistent with laboratory results of increased intra-individual variability and attention decrements over time.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1087-0547
Volume :
12
Issue :
6
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Journal of attention disorders
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
19255371
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1177/1087054708322990