Executive functioning in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): An ecological perspective of the differential profiles between the combined and the inattentive types

Abstract

This study aims to define the executive dysfunctions in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and, specifically, in the inattentive and combined subtypes. Moreover, it intends to determine whether either the symptoms of inattention or those of hyperactivity/impulsivity of the disorder are related to these dysfunctions. Using the BRIEF (Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function), a total of 87 children were assessed and classified in three groups: 29 children with inattentive ADHD, 29 children with combined ADHD, and a control group of 29 children without ADHD. The results show that the children with ADHD differ from the control group in all dimensions of the BRIEF. The differences between ADHD types were more marked in behavioral than in cognitive aspects, the combined type being most affected. Furthermore, inattention symptoms appeared to be more specifically related to the BRIEF.