Improving ADHD Teen Driving - Virtual Reality

Launched by CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL MEDICAL CENTER, CINCINNATI · Apr 29, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying how to help teens with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) become safer drivers. Teens with ADHD often have trouble paying attention while driving, which can lead to accidents. Researchers want to test two different training programs using virtual reality to teach these teens how to keep their focus on the road and reduce distractions.

To participate, teens aged 16 to 19 who have been diagnosed with ADHD and have a valid driver's license can apply. They should be comfortable driving alone for at least three hours each week. Parents will also need to be involved in the process. However, teens who are currently taking certain medications or have specific health issues may not be eligible. If chosen, participants will engage in driving simulations to practice their skills in a safe environment. This trial aims to help improve driving safety for teens with ADHD and reduce the chances of accidents on the road.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Aged 16-19.
• • 2. Teens will meet DSM ADHD criteria for ADHD-Predominantly Inattentive Presentation or ADHD-Combined Presentation based on the K-SADS interview.
• • 3. Possess a valid driver's license and regularly spend at least 3 hours per week engaged in unsupervised driving.
• • 4. IQ ≥80 as measured by the Kauffman Brief Intelligence Scale - Second Edition (KBIT-2).
• • 5. Parent willing to participate.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. On ADHD medication that cannot be washed out on assessment days.
• • 2. Drug or alcohol dependence based on self-report on the Simple Screening Instrument for Alcohol and Other Drugs survey.
• • 3. On psychotropic or neuroleptic medications.
• • 4. At-risk for motion sickness in the driving simulator or in virtual reality.
• • 5. History of moderate to severe head trauma, neurological disorder, or any other organic disorder that could possibly affect brain function.
• • 6. Cannot see the secondary task stimuli without the use of glasses (contacts acceptable).