The Effect of Cognitive Training on the Attention Rate and Working Memory in Children with Attention Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder

The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of cognitive training on attention and working memory in girl students with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

The present research was a quasi-experimental study by pre-test, post-test design with control group. 30 girls with ADHD (9-11 years) were selected by convenient sampling method from schools of Kahrizac Province. They were divided into experimental and control group (each consists of 15 students) randomly. Experimental group participated in cognitive training in 10 sessions (two sessions weekly; each lasts for 40 minutes), while control group did not. Stroop color-word test and working memory test were used for assessment of all participants. Data were analyzed by MANCOVA through SPSS version 22.

Findings showed that experimental and control groups had significant difference, at least in one of the attention and working memory variables. The results of MANCOVA showed cognitive training had positive and significant effect on the attention rate and working memory of students with ADHD .

Cognitive training program led to the improvement of attention and working memory of students with ADHD. It is suggested that to plan and implement of such programs can promote attention and working memory of these students.