Do cognitive training applications improve executive function in children with adverse childhood experiences? A pilot study.

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  • Author(s): Spawton-Rice JH;Spawton-Rice JH; Walker Z; Walker Z
  • Source:
    Applied neuropsychology. Child [Appl Neuropsychol Child] 2022 Jul-Sep; Vol. 11 (3), pp. 373-382. Date of Electronic Publication: 2020 Dec 08.
  • Publication Type:
    Journal Article
  • Language:
    English
  • Additional Information
    • Source:
      Publisher: Taylor & Francis Group Country of Publication: United States NLM ID: 101584990 Publication Model: Print-Electronic Cited Medium: Internet ISSN: 2162-2973 (Electronic) Linking ISSN: 21622965 NLM ISO Abbreviation: Appl Neuropsychol Child Subsets: MEDLINE
    • Publication Information:
      Original Publication: Philadelphia, PA : Taylor & Francis Group
    • Subject Terms:
      Adverse Childhood Experiences* ; Executive Function*; Child ; Cognition ; Humans ; Memory, Short-Term ; Pilot Projects
    • Abstract:
      Executive function (EF) is comprised of inhibitory control, working memory and cognitive flexibility, core components which more complex skills and abilities develop from, including problem solving, reasoning and planning. Adverse childhood experiences (ACE) negatively impact the development of these skills and in turn life outcomes. This pilot-study explores the use of computerized cognitive training applications (CCTA) (software-based training programs) in school, to improve these skills in children aged 6-11 with ACE. A pre-post-test, between-subject experimental design using an experimental and a placebo-control group was used. The control group were matched to the experimental group by prior academic attainment level and age. A one-way multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) assessed changes in EF across two time-points between the experimental and the control group. Both groups of participants were selected based on an ACE parent-report questionnaire score of 4+ ( n  = 32). EF was measured using the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF), assessing far-transfer of training to behavioral measures of EF. Results show CCTA had a significant positive impact on executive function, particularly on working memory. This small-scale pilot study presents exciting directions for future research into the role of CCTA in order to confirm conclusions drawn.
    • Contributed Indexing:
      Keywords: Adverse childhood experiences; cognitive training; computerized cognitive training application; executive function; school-based interventions
    • Publication Date:
      Date Created: 20201208 Date Completed: 20220620 Latest Revision: 20220620
    • Publication Date:
      20240104
    • Accession Number:
      10.1080/21622965.2020.1854094
    • Accession Number:
      33290097