Executive Functions Contribute to the Differences Between ADHD and Sluggish Cognitive Tempo (SCT) in Adults

Objectives: This paper analyses the relationship between sociodemographic variables, executive dysfunctions, Sluggish Cognitive Tempo (SCT) and the mainly dimensions of ADHD: hyperactivity-impulsivity (ADHD-H/I) and inattention (ADHD-IN) in Brazilian adults. Method: A cross-sectional, exploratory, and comparative design was used. A total of 446 participants (295 women) aging from 18 to 63 years old (M = 3,499 years, SD = 10.7) were recruited on the internet. Correlations, t independent tests and regressions were conducted. Results: Higher scores in ADHD dimensions were associated to more executive functioning problems and time perception distortions in comparison to those participants without significant ADHD symptoms. However, ADHD-IN dimension as well as SCT were higher associated with these dysfunctions than ADHD-H/I. The regression results showed that ADHD-IN was more related to Self-Management to time while ADHD-H/I to Self-Restraint and SCT to Self-Organization/Problem Solving. Conclusion: This paper contributed to the distinction between SCT and ADHD in adults in important psychological dimensions.

Automated summary

This paper analyzes the relationship between sociodemographic variables, executive dysfunctions, Sluggish Cognitive Tempo (SCT), and the dimensions of hyperactivity-impulsivity (ADHD-H/I) and inattention (ADHD-IN) in Brazilian adults. The study recruited 446 participants (295 women) aged 18 to 63 years old. Higher scores in ADHD dimensions were associated with more executive functioning problems and time perception distortions. ADHD-IN and SCT were more strongly associated with these dysfunctions than ADHD-H/I. Regression analysis showed that ADHD-IN was related to self-management of time, ADHD-H/I was related to self-restraint, and SCT was related to self-organization and problem-solving.