A Multi-Method Investigation to Distinguish Sluggish Cognitive Tempo from ADHD
Grant Number: 1 K23MH108603-01
PI: Stephen P. Becker, PhD
Collaborators: Jeffery Epstein, PhD; Jing Xiang, MD, PhD; Dean W Beebe, PhD, ABPP; Leanne Tamm, PhD; Erik Willcutt, PhD (University of Colorado Boulder); Sandra K Loo, PhD (University of California)
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is characterized by inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity, but some children display a unique pattern of attentional symptoms not captured by ADHD-defined inattention. This cluster of symptoms is termed “sluggish cognitive tempo” (SCT) and includes excessive daydreaming, seeming to be “in a fog,” and slowed behavior/thinking. Although it was initially suggested that SCT may identify a subset of children with ADHD who display high rates of inattention but few if any hyperactive-impulsive symptoms, it is now clear that SCT symptoms are statistically distinct from ADHD. It is estimated that 5-8% of youth display elevated SCT symptoms, with approximately half having SCT in isolation and half having SCT in addition to ADHD (SCT+ADHD).
The primary goal of the proposed study is to identify key between-group differences in neuropsychological performance and daily life impairments between children with well-defined SCT (with and without ADHD) in comparison to controls and children with ADHD-only.
A sample of 184 children (ages 8 - 12) will be recruited into four groups:
- SCT-only
- ADHD-only
- SCT + ADHD
- Typically developing controls
The secondary goal is to identify neurophysiological correlates that differentiate children across the four groups.
This study will address the following specific aims:
- Aim 1: Identify neuropsychological impairments that distinguish children with SCT (with or without ADHD) from children with ADHD-only and control children
- Aim 2: Identify daily life impairments that distinguish children with SCT (with or without ADHD) from children with ADHD-only and control children
- Aim 3 (Exploratory): Examine neurophysiological correlates that distinguish SCT from ADHD
