The Relationship between Cognitive Functions and Academic Performance in Children with Attention Deficit, Hyperactivity Disorder

Children with Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) have problems in some aspects of cognitive function. These children are also more likely to fall behind in school compared to normal children. This study has investigated the relationship between cognitive functions and academic performance in fourth and fifth grade students with ADHD. This is a cross-sectional correlation study. A total of 30 students in fourth and fifth grade with ADHD were referred to occupational therapy clinic and their cognitive functions were assessed by Cognitive Assessment System (CAS) and Integrated Visual and Auditory Continues Performance Test (CPT) + IVA test. To evaluate the academic performance, grade point average of last semester were employed. Data were analyzed using SPSS 16 software. Significant correlations were seen between attention (CAS) and academic performance and the other side between planning, simultaneous, successive functioning and academic performance P value of 0.05 and 0.01 respectively. In addition, the correlation between total score of cognitive function and academic performance was also statistically significant. The findings showed that cognitive function have a significant impact on academic performance in school aged children with ADHD and plays an important role in predicting academic performance. Evidence based relationship between problematic cognitive functions and academic progressions emphasize on cognitive rehabilitation programs in ADHD to caregivers and instructors.