Impact of computer game and computer assisted type instruction on inattention and impulsivity of children suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Treatment of inattention and impulsivity in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is challenging. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of computer games versus computer assisted type instruction on inattention and impulsivity of primary school children with ADHD. In this single blind clinical trial, 37 primary school children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder were divided into two groups. Group I (n=17) and group II (n=20) underwent one month intervention by computer game and computer assisted type instruction, respectively. Intervention was consisted of eight one-hour sessions. The two groups were matched for age, sex, school grade, drug, school performance, parents and teacher Conners scale, having computer at home and history of work with computer. Inattention (commissions) and impulsivity (omission) was tested with continuous performance test, pre- and post-intervention. In the group I commission errors did not change significantly by the intervention. Commission errors decreased significantly in the group II (11.64±20.44 versus 14.10±10.18) (p<0.05). Omission errors and reaction time showed no significant changes in both groups. With respect to the life time complications of ADHD children, and decrease in impulsivity by the computerized type learning in this study, we hope that with future studies, computer assisted instruction can play a role in the treatment of ADHD.