First Steps Toward Modeling ADHD Under a Dual-Task Paradigm Using a Markovian Framework for Diagnosis

摘要

Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common cognitive disorder afflicting many childrenand adults. Since most ADHD diagnostic procedures are based on subjective assessments, the goal of thisstudy was to develop an objective assessment that takes into account performance differences betweenADHD and non-ADHD individuals under a dual-task paradigm. Specifically, a model using a Markovianframework was used to determine the probability people with and without ADHD would switch betweentwo tasks. Two studies were used, one to develop the model and one to validate the model. The values fromthe Ewen et al. (2012) study were used to determine the values of interest: the percentage of time spent onthe each task, the probabilities remaining on each task, and the probabilities of switching between tasks.The developed multiplier value equations, which established the predicted values, were validated using thevalues from the Cepeda et al. (2000) study. The differences between the predicted values were all within15% of the actual values. Overall, the study provides the initial stepping stone toward developing anobjective ADHD diagnostic tool based on dual-task performance.