Working Memory Training in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: A systematic review

Abstract

Working memory training may help children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but robust evidence from systematic reviews is lacking. Children with poor Working memory ability struggle with academic and cognitive work compared to similar-aged peers without working memory deficits. Besides, working memory is correlated with inattention and disorganization in those with ADHD. The aim of this systematic review was to assess the effect of working memory training on symptoms and behaviors of children with ADHD. A search equation was proposed (ADHD OR attention deficit hyperactivity disorder AND working memory training), with twenty-four studies meeting the inclusion criteria in the Clarivate Analytics Web of Science Core Collection database. A bibliometric analysis was conducted to identify the importance of the research topic and a citation network was built to establish the lines of research. Finally, the citation network was exported to Gephi to visualize the research groups studying the topic. Findings suggest 3 lines of research: (a) Effects of working memory training on working memory, and academic performance in children with ADHD, (b) Effects of working memory training on executive functioning and child ADHD related symptoms, (c) Effects of working memory training on brain activity in child ADHD. Implications for clinical practice and school-based interventions are discussed.