ADHD and other neurodevelopmental conditions
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorders (ASD) represent two of the most common neurodevelopmental conditions. These conditions are usually diagnosed in childhood, and for many children, symptoms persist into adulthood. Neurodevelopmental conditions result in functional impairment in everyday life, including school performance and relationships.
Project description
While pharmacological treatments have been shown to have an effect on ADHD symptoms, non-pharmacological interventions such as psychoeducation are regarded as the first-line treatment. Psychological treatments could be an important complement to pharmacological treatments and be more beneficial for improving adaptive function in some areas.
In our research group we develop and evaluate psychological treatments for children and adolescents with ADHD. As problems regulating emotions are commonly seen in ADHD, emotional regulation is one important focus for the psychological treatment.
Within child and adolescent psychiatry, the diagnostic procedures for assessment of ADHD varies. While a comprehensive procedure can result in long waiting time for assessment, a procedure that is too brief can lead to incorrect diagnoses. In one of our research projects we aim to investigate the best way to diagnose ADHD.
By examining groups with a known increased risk of neuropsychiatric impairments, we can gain increased knowledge about ADHD and ASD. One such risk group is children with craniofacial malformations who are examined and followed in a longitudinal study conducted in collaboration with the surgeons who perform the surgical treatment.