Examination of a Novel Unstructured Performance-based Measure of Executive Function in Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and a Community Sample of Typically Developing Children

Abstract

Executive functions enable problem solving and goal attainment. EF have been assessed with performance-based measures and rating scales. Research has shown a lack of association between these two methods. One framework used to understand this difference is the structure provided on performance-based measures and not provided on rating scales. This study investigated the role of structure through examining a novel Unstructured-Performance-based Task (UPT). Eighty children between 8-12 (38 with ADHD, 42 typically developing, Mage= 9.56, SD= 1.29) and their parents participated. Significant associations emerged between the UPT, performance-based measures and rating scale. Performance-based measures and the rating scale significantly predicted UPT performance. Group differences were found across all measures. The UPT significantly predicted ADHD status when entered with performance-based measures, but not the rating scale. Results suggest UPT may be a promising measure to assess EF related difficulties in ADHD and provide a picture of childrens behaviours in unstructured environments.