Validity of electroencephalographic assessment for identifying the Attention Deficit with Hyperactivity Disorder

Abstract

This paper examines the validity of the EEG as an additional diagnostic test of ADHD as well as the SNAP-IV, an instrument often used in primary care screening for this disorder. It has been included a total of 108 children, aged between 7 and 14 years, with hyperactive-attention symptomatology. The validity of the EEG has been estimated from the ratio of theta / beta variables and considering the work done (look at a fixed point, reading, listening and drawing) while performing the evaluation and age group of children who participated. The results show sensitivity and specificity rates between 70% and 80%, with an efficacy in the real classification above 75%. The age is a fundamental criterion for selecting the adequate ratio theta/ beta and the tasks used during the evaluation.These data support the utility of EEG in the diagnosis of ADHD.

CITE AS:

Moreno García, I., Lora Muñoz, J.A. & Sánchez Blanco, J. (2011). Validez de la evaluación electroencefalográfica en la identificación del Trastorno por Déficit de Atención con Hiperactividad. Apuntes de Psicología, 29, 227-242.