Literature Review
Attention Deficit Disorder is a neurological disorder that affects both adults and children. ADD, also referred to as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is characterized by persistent patterns of impulsivity, hyperactivity, and inattention (Rohner et al., 2023). This interferes with the daily functioning of an individual. There is a need to explore the causes and treatment options of this disorder. It is also crucial to examine its scope, including how research on the same has evolved to address this condition.
Causes of ADHD
Research indicates different causes of ADHD, with genetics identified as a significant factor in its development (Akhrif et al., 2023). Studies on family histories and twins demonstrate the tendency for this disorder to run families. This confirms the hereditary components and characteristics of the condition. Even though this is considered the primary cause, neurological factors such as differences in function and brain structure have also been identified (da Silva et al., 2023). Studies on brain imaging reveal that the structural differences in the prefrontal cortex influence the development of this condition. Other abnormalities in the neurotransmitter systems have been considered too. This is because they mainly involve dopamine levels.
According to Sciberras et al. (2022), environmental factors equally contribute to the prevalence of ADHD. Prenatal exposure to certain toxins increases the risk of being diagnosed with the disorder. Some of the exposures include alcohol and smoking during pregnancy. What is more, premature and low birth weight have also been linked to a higher likelihood of developing this neurological disease. More causes of ADHD are determined by psychosocial factors (Gómez-Cano et al., 2023). For example, family stress is associated with the condition because it exacerbates the symptoms. Other factors in this category include parenting styles and early exposure to adversity (Alfonso et al., 2023).
Treatment of ADHD
There are several treatment approaches for ADHD that have been explored by different researchers. Some of the alternatives include medication, psychoeducation, and behavioural therapy (Nasri et al., 2023). Even though they can be used independently, these alternatives can also be combined to complement each other. Cognitive behavioural therapy is one of the behavioural therapy approaches that help individuals with this disorder improve their coping skills. It is significant because it improves impulse control and enhances organizational skills. Nasri et al. (2023) explain that Psychoeducation can also treat ADHD because it provides information and support to individuals with the disorder and those close to them. This helps them better their conditions or learn how to manage their challenges.
Parkin et al. (2022) acknowledge medication as another crucial treatment approach that is vital when addressing ADHD. Stimulant medications comprising amphetamine and methylphenidate-based drugs are some of the commonly prescribed alternatives (Cortese, 2023). The benefits of using this option are improved attention, focus, and impulse control because they affect the neurotransmitter levels in the brain. For example, they are used to regulate dopamine levels to reduce inattention or impulsivity. Non-stimulating medicine is also used to treat ADHD for individuals who do not tolerate stimulants (Neuchat et al., 2023). Atomoxetine is a common example of this medicine that is considered.
Evolution of Cognitive Psychology Research
The view of cognition in the context of ADHD has evolved, with early research focusing on theories that disregarded neurological aspects of the disorder. Studies only emphasized psychoanalytic theories and behavioural observations (Bertilsdotter Rosqvist et al., 2023). Researchers solely focused on parenting styles and how they influenced behavioural issues. This continued until the mid-20th century when cognitive psychology started to seek more understanding of ADHD (Bertilsdotter Rosqvist et al., 2023). Focus gradually shifted to the cognitive processes linked to the disorder as the field of cognitive psychology developed. As a result of this shift, there was more focus on deficits in executive functions such as planning, inhibition, and working memory. More research was conducted to understand these functions in individuals with the disorder. As a result of the shift in perspective, there was a better understanding of the cognitive elements of ADHD.
Recently, technological advancements have boosted the study and research on the disorder even further. It led to the beginning of neuroimaging studies, which increased the scope of the condition (Guan Lim et al., 2020). Specifically, neuroimaging helped reveal the functions and structural differences in the brains of individuals with ADHD. One of the major findings was in the field of functional MRI studies, as stated by Guan Lim et al. (2020). Experiments showed altered activity in the striatum and prefrontal cortex of the brain. This accounted for the deficits in executive functions and attention. The findings solidified the connection between ADHD and cognitive processes.
Research Designs in ADHD Studies
Different research designs have been employed in the study of ADHD. One of the standard designs is longitudinal studies that track individuals with ADHD from childhood to adulthood (Reed et al., 2023). This approach is crucial in understanding the course and persistence of the disorder. Twin and family studies have also been conducted when exploring the condition. It has helped establish the genetic basis of ADHD. The research design examines the heritability characteristics of the disorder and how it runs in the family.
Other experimental research designs have also been used to improve the study. These experimental-based options involve exploring contrive tasks, allowing researchers to identify specific deficits in attention and inclusiveness (Salari et al., 2023). It complements neuroimaging studies that have been recently adopted because of technological advancements. Functional MRI and EEG have provided objective measures of brain activity in individuals with the disorder. The results have been compared to neurotypical individuals to determine the differences.
Ethical Considerations in ADHD Research
Just like the evolution in cognitive psychology, there has been a considerable shift in the ethical considerations in ADHD Research, considering a growth in the awareness of the same. Initially, there was limited understanding of the condition. This resulted in some early research involving questions about ethical practices. However, this has changed with modern research emphasizing the need to adhere to ethical standards. For example, there has been an increased need to ensure informed consent, which is considered a fundamental ethical requirement. Today, researchers have ensured they clearly explain the purpose of the study. They also reveal the potential risks and benefits to the participants.
Recent efforts have been put in place to ensure ethical standards consider the vulnerability of the population. The main objective of emphasis on the same is to protect children with ADHD. Institutional Review Boards have been established over the years to oversee research that involves human subjects. This ensures full adherence to the ethical guidelines while studying ADHD. Historically, ethical concerns in past research on the disorder were not clearly defined compared to recent years. There has been a considerable shift in seeing researchers prioritize the rights of participants. This seeks to ensure their welfare, considering they are vulnerable to the condition. This shift highlights the broader changes that have taken place in research ethics across the field of psychology and medicine.
Research Design
Gaps in Research of ADHD
One significant gap in ADHD research is related to the long-term impact of treatment interventions. Little attention has been channelled to understanding how the treatment affects adults (Williams et al., 2023). Even though there is considerable literature on the effectiveness of treatment in children, a lack of research on how the interventions impact individuals with the disorder later in their adulthood exists (De Rossi et al., 2023). As a result, it limits the understanding of whether childhood interventions lead to sustained improvements. This leaves questions on occupational success, academic development, and overall functioning unanswered. For this reason, there is a need to explore the dynamics of the treatment to understand how it impacts ADHD in the later stages of their life.
Research Question
While seeking to address the research gap, a research question can be formulated as follows:
Do childhood interventions for ADHD lead to improved long-term outcomes in adulthood, including academic achievement and occupational success?”
The question is concerned with the lasting effects of childhood treatment and its outcomes as an adult. It sheds light on the effectiveness and sustainability of the interventions.
Determining the Research Design
Analysis reveals that a longitudinal research design would be appropriate for this study. Following individuals with ADHD from childhood to adulthood is suitable as it helps understand changes by age. Comparing outcomes for those who received treatment and those who did not allow researchers to assess the long-term impact of treatment. In order to conduct this analysis, a standardized measure can be developed. It includes recording academic achievement, occupational success, and severity of ADHD symptoms. This will help track the changes over time and fill the knowledge gap.
Ethical Considerations
One of the primary considerations is obtaining informed consent from participants. They should be aware of the benefits, risks, procedures, and purpose of the study. Another consideration is privacy and confidentiality (Williams et al., 2023). Data on the participants’ identities can be retracted from the research findings. The study is also concerned with the psychological harm caused to the participants during the research. It acknowledges discomfort when discussing ADHD symptoms and academic or occupational achievements. Providing adequate counselling resources and support is crucial to avoid emotional distress during the study. Diversity and inclusivity are other considerations which ensure participants from a wide range of demography. This approach enhances the generalizability of the findings while reducing biases.
In conclusion, research on ADHD has continually evolved in understanding the causes and treatment options. Specifically, there has been an evolution in cognitive psychology that contributes to a better understanding of the cognitive development of the disorder. This has increased the scope of research on the condition. However, a gap in the treatment interventions and their impacts with time has been identified. There is a need to observe ethical considerations when seeking to fill this gap with research.
References
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