ADHD and working memory

June 21, 2015 6:45 AM

Can working memory impairment be reliably inferred from a diagnosis of ADHD? How often do individuals meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD without showing substantial impairment on measures of WM? Is it appreciably often the case that WM memory deficits in childhood and early adolesence are resolved during the process of maturation?
posted by anonymous to Science & Nature (1 answer total)

In this study, ADHD and non-ADHD participants performed comparatively on a working memory task; the authors think the ADHDers used compensatory strategies. So it seems possible that an adult could have functionally normal working memory and ADHD.

(Obviously, less-good working memory wouldn't be indicative of ADHD on its own, if any of the more common comorbidities are present - anxiety, depression, substance abuse, etc - as might be expected with adults. IANAP)
posted by cotton dress sock at 8:36 AM on June 21, 2015 [1 favorite]