Research Proposal: Is Attention Deficit Disorder a Neuropsychological Problem?

Research and Critique a Qualitative Study

Tashara English

PSY 635 Research Design and Methods

Instructor: Thomas MacCarty

July 18, 2017

Introduction

The qualitative research article recognized in this paper is “Attention deficit/hyperactivity and comorbid symptoms in preschoolers: Differences between subgroups in neuropsychological basic deficits” (2014). The study proposed in this article determines if there is an existing relationship between Attention Deficit Disorder and Neuropsychological deficits. The design implemented for this study is a Cluster analysis. According to the article, Using Clustering as a Tool: Mixed Methods in Qualitative Data Analysis, “Cluster analysis as an exploratory tool to support the identification of associations within qualitative data. While not appropriate for all qualitative projects, cluster analysis can be particularly helpful in identifying patterns where numerous cases are studied” (Macia, 2015).

Summary

The research study focuses on the diverseness of ADHD and the corresponding risk of developmental symptoms of ADHD in preschool children. Using subgroup analysis continuous symptom scores where conducted. It is believed that interaction between environmental and genetic factors correlate with ADHD. Leading to variations in the way the brain functions. This later creates cognitive and behavioral deficits and other symptoms of ADHD. Varied research illustrates a close relationship between ADHD symptoms and neuropsychological deficits particularly in children between the ages of 3-6 years. The research question asks, “Whether corresponding subgroups at risk for ADHD development, can be identified in a preschool sample and whether these subgroups show the assumed neuropsychological deficits”? (Pauli-Pott et al, 2014).

Sampling Strategy

A sample size of 141 preschool children, 3-6 years of age were randomly selected for this study. The underage participants where accompanied by at least one parent. The sample pairs where obtained from 12 different childcare centers within two cities 15 miles apart. Informational flyers were provided to parents, to establish if there child/children exhibited symptoms of hyperactivity. For the children that showed symptoms, 90 minute assessment sessions were conducted. Parent(s) and children were simultaneously interviewed.

Data Analysis

Both qualitative and quantitative data was obtained in the study. Cluster analysis of the population was the initial method of obtaining standardized data. Questionnaires correlating to emotional, behavioral and sustainable attention were completed by parents and childcare staff. Exploration linked neuropsychological tasks by equation analysis of variance. Other disparities were controlled and tested such as age, gender and education. During the analysis, predictors of ADHD symptoms and Comorbid problems were used. Inhibition capacity (IC) and delay aversion (DA) were used as measured variables.

Findings

After a thorough the analysis of various clusters, a strong correlation ADHD symptoms and comorbid problems were associated with inhibition capacity. Further analysis, found no sustainable relationship between delay aversion, ADHD and comorbid problem. Results of the study also established that children diagnosed with ADHD have a direct correspondence to ADHD subgroups. Such as oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), and conduct disorder (CD), where children show symptoms of anxiety and other negative emotions.

Conclusion

A much debated subject is that a neuropsychological factor associated with the symptoms of ADHD is the sustained attention (SD). This associated relationship is a controversial matter. Many children, especially at the preschool age lack the mental ability to maintain attentiveness for extended periods of time. Conflicting results have surfaced, while some research suggests a significant correlation. Most researches have revealed that the relationship between sustained attention and ADHD is very minimal (Cecilia Wåhlstedt and Gunilla Bohlin, 2010). This study contributed to the explanation of subgroups that are at risk of ADHD symptoms, predominately children of preschool age. However comprehensive the study presented limitations, the lack of longitudinal data, information that could be vital in establishing validity. Ethical considerations that were applied to the study resided in the researchers and their ability to collectively establish a professional stance. Such as consent working with children and privacy, which was established by direct communication via phone calls. Validity of procedures and results was also an ethical concern. The researchers ensured that all data collected was verified through photos and recordings.

References:

Macia, L. (2015). Using Clustering as a Tool: Mixed Methods in Qualitative Data Analysis. The

Qualitative report. 20 (7). Retrieved from https://search-proquest-com.proxy-library.ashford.edu/docview/1704359650?accountid=32521

Pauli-Pott, U., Dalir, S., Mingebach, T., Roller, A. and Becker, K (2014). Attention

deficit/hyperactivity and comorbid symptoms in preschoolers: Differences between subgroups in neuropsychological basic deficits. Child Neuropsychology http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/09297049.2013.778236 Retrieved from http://eds.b.ebscohost.com.proxy-library.ashford.edu

Wahlstedt, C. and Bohlin, G. (2010). Dsm-Iv-Defined Inattention and Sluggish Cognitive

Tempo: Independent and Interactive Relations to Neuropsychological Factors and Comorbidity. Child Neuropsychology, 250-253.