The Effectiveness of Cognitive Rehabilitation based on Computer Games on Executive Functions of Children with Attention Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder

Treatment of attention deficit / hyperactivity disorder as the most common neurodevelopmental disorder has tended toward the use of computer-based technologies. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of computer-based cognitive rehabilitation on the executive functions of children with attention deficit / hyperactivity disorder. The study was a quasi-experimental with pretest posttest and 45 days follow up with control group. The statistical population consisted of all students with attention deficit / hyperactivity disorder in Shiraz elementary school in winter of 2019. 32 students were selected as available sample and replaced in experimental and control groups. The Tower of London test, the Stroop test, and the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test were used. The experimental group received cognitive rehabilitation based on computer games three times a week (15 minutes per game for a total of 30 minutes) and the control group was placed on the waiting list. Data were analyzed by SPSS-24 software using repeated measures analysis of covariance (ANOVA). The results showed that computer-based rehabilitation had a significant effect on the executive functions of children with attention deficit / hyperactivity disorder (Sig <0.05). Experimental group showed improvement in cognitive function after intervention and planning, organization, inhibition and cognitive flexibility variables were observed after 45 days of intervention. Therefore, it can be said that cognitive rehabilitation is based on effective and sustained therapeutic computer games.