Computerized working memory training for adults with ADHD in a psychiatric outpatient context—a feasibility trial

Abstract

This study investigated the feasibility (treatment completion, and acceptability) and preliminary effectiveness of computerized working memory (WM) training in a psychiatric outpatient context for adults with ADHD. Self-ratings, neuropsychological tests, and clinician’s assessments were performed pre- and post-Cogmed WM training, as well as at the 2-month follow-up, which included 24 (age M = 36.75 SD = 8.37) participants. Of the 24 participants, 16 (66.67%) completed the 25 sessions within 7 weeks. Completers reported high treatment credibility, but a few spontaneously reported feeling stressed because of the time-consuming nature of the WM training (n = 4). Preliminary effectiveness analyses indicate fewer cognitive difficulties and increased neuropsychological performance in non-trained tests that remained stable at follow-up. Future development of WM training paradigms could investigate ways of making the perception of training experience less demanding regarding being time-consuming. The indication of preliminary effectiveness merits further randomized controlled studies in a clinical context.