Evaluation of Motor Skills and Neurocognitive Functions in School-Age Children Diagnosed With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Abstract

Objective

While it is known that there is a close connection between motor skills and neurocognitive functions. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), one of the most common childhood disorders, has not been adequately evaluated. This study aimed to assess motor skills and neurocognitive functions in children with ADHD, and to examine the relationship between these functions in comparison to healthy controls.

Method

This case-control study was conducted who were diagnosed with ADHD (n = 55) and age and sex matched healthy controls (n = 57). The sociodemographic characteristics of the participants were collected using a descriptive information form. The Movement Assessment Battery for Children- Second Edition (MABC-2) was used to evaluate motor skills, while the Central Nervous System Vital Signs (CNSVS) computer-based test battery was used to assess neurocognitive functions.

Results

The scores on neurocognitive components were significantly lower in the ADHD group (p < 0.05). Children with ADHD had lower MABC-2 total scores and average balance subcomponent scores compared to healthy children (p < 0.05). Additionally, the weak positive correlations between MABC-2 scores and neurocognitive functions observed in the control group were not present in the ADHD group.

Conclusion

The results of our study suggest that children with ADHD have significantly more difficulties with motor skills and neurocognitive functions than their healthy controls. This highlights the need for a comprehensive assessment of children with ADHD.

Keywords

attention deficit hyperactivity disorder motor skills neurocognitive function CNS vital signs MABC-2

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