Executive Function in Children with Neurodevelopmental Conditions
Author Information
Author(s): Sadozai Ayesha K., Sun Carter, Demetriou Eleni A., Lampit Amit, Munro Martha, Perry Nina, Boulton Kelsie A., Guastella Adam J.
Primary Institution: University of Sydney
Hypothesis
Do children with neurodevelopmental conditions experience delays in executive function compared to controls?
Conclusion
The study found that executive function delays are a transdiagnostic feature of neurodevelopmental conditions, with moderate effect sizes observed.
Supporting Evidence
- 180 studies were synthesized to assess executive function across neurodevelopmental conditions.
- Moderate effect sizes were found for executive function delays in children with neurodevelopmental conditions.
- Children with ADHD showed larger delays in attention and planning compared to those with tic disorders.
Takeaway
Kids with conditions like autism and ADHD often have trouble with things like planning and paying attention, and this study shows that these problems are common across different conditions.
Methodology
The study synthesized data from 180 studies comparing executive function in children with neurodevelopmental conditions to controls.
Potential Biases
Some studies did not control for comorbidity, which may affect the results.
Limitations
The analysis was limited by the existing literature and the absence of broad investigations of neurodevelopment that incorporates many between-disorder comparisons.
Participant Demographics
Children under 18 years of age with various neurodevelopmental conditions.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI 0.49–0.63
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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