Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Three Presentations or not? SCT: Another Presentation of ADHD

Document Type : Research Paper

Author

PhD, Cognitive Neuroscience, University of Tabriz. Postdoctoral Researcher, Faculty of Educational Sciences and Psychology, University of Tabriz.

Abstract

Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that includes a series of cognitive and behavioral alterations. It has well-defined core symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), Inattentive (ADHD-I), Hyperactive/Impulsive (ADHD-HI), and Combined (ADHD-C) presentations have been defined. However, there are some individuals who display largely attentional problems but are qualitatively different than those with ADHD-I. The present study aimed to review the characteristics of individuals with Sluggish Cognitive Tempo (SCT).
The conceptualization of ADHD as a single disorder with three presentations has been challenged by recent research. Regarding ADHD-I, some researchers have proposed deficit in processing speed and selective attention rather than behavioral inhibition. Sluggish Cognitive Tempo (SCT) has been described as a subtype suggesting this type of attention deficit.
SCT is a cognitive-emotional style that is commonly described by five typical characteristics, which are “daydreaming”, “being confused”, “staring blankly”, “being sluggish” and “being unmotivated”. Especially, ADHD/I has been frequently linked to symptoms such as, daydreaming, staring, mental fogginess, confusion, hypoactivity, sluggish or slow movement, lethargy, apathy and sleepiness. it can be concluded that SCT is a psychometrically valid construct with additive value in the clinical field of ADHD. Although there is a degree of correlation between the SCT symptom domain and inattention, it has been proposed as a distinct disorder independent of ADHD.

Keywords

References

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Journal of Modern Psychological Researches
Volume 15, Issue 57
May 2020
Pages 19-33

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History

  • Receive Date: 01 May 2019
  • Revise Date: 07 November 2019
  • Accept Date: 07 February 2020

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