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Videogame screening tool for the early detection of ADHD

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a behavioral syndrome where inattention and/or hyperactivity impair social, academic or occupational function. Cognitive impairments in temporal abilities and delay aversion have been related to ADHD. The aim of this study is to design a game-like software that assesses temporal perception for the early detection of ADHD.

Method: Two groups of 7 to 10 children (17 with ADHD and 17 control children) were compared on their performance on four game-like sftware based on Delay Aversion, Anticipation, Synchronization Tapping and Time reproduction experimental tasks.

Results: All games detected significant differences between groups in accuracy or variability. The Discriminant function correctly classified 82.4% of the cases.

Conclusions: Although the conversion of experimental tasks into game-like software implies a compromise between experimental rigour and screening efficiency, the use of videogames to measure cognitive processes is a potential tool for preventive healthcare.    

Financing entity: Fondo María Viñas - ANII

Research Center: CIBPSi, Faculty of Psychology

Role: Research Assistant

Main Researchers: Dr. Alejandro Maiche & Dr. Alejandro Vásquez.

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