Examination of the Dynamic Relationships of Sleep, Physical Activity, and Circadian Rhythmicity With Neurobehavioral Heterogeneity in ADHD

Launched by HUGO W. MOSER RESEARCH INSTITUTE AT KENNEDY KRIEGER, INC. · Jan 31, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying how sleep, physical activity, and daily rhythms affect the symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). ADHD can look different in each person, with some struggling more with attention, hyperactivity, or emotions. Researchers want to understand how these factors might relate to the way ADHD shows up in different individuals. To do this, they will use a wearable wristband to track children's daily activity and sleep over two weeks, along with some short questionnaires about their feelings and ADHD symptoms.

Children aged 8 to 12 who have been diagnosed with ADHD may be eligible to participate. They will need to stop taking their ADHD medication for 24 hours before their appointments. The study involves an initial 2-hour visit where children will take cognitive tests and practice an MRI scan, followed by two weeks of monitoring at home, and a final 4-hour appointment that includes an MRI and computer activities. Parents will also complete questionnaires about their child's behavior. While there are minimal risks like mild discomfort, there is no cost to participate, and there are no direct benefits for the participants.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• • ADHD Clinical Group. Meet criteria for attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) according to DSM-5 criteria.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Prematurity Prenatal exposure to alcohol or other substances Traumatic brain injury Co-occurring neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability) Anxiety/mood disorders Active psychosis Bipolar disorder Conduct disorder Currently taking longer acting psychotropic medications that cannot be discontinued the day before research appointments
• • Control Group. Does not meet criteria for psychological or neuropsychological disorders Does not meet criteria for intellectual disability Does not meet criteria for a learning disorder
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Prematurity Prenatal exposure to alcohol or other substances Traumatic brain injury Currently taking medications that cannot be discontinued the day before research appointments