Current Research Projects
Our goal is to identify underlying mechanisms and cognitive processes that are unique to children (Little Orange Project) and adults (Big Orange Project) with ADHD. We examine the relationships among core deficits, cognitive/behavioral correlates, and underlying psychological processes that may underlie core and associated features of ADHD. Interested in participating in our studies? Click here to contact us!
Little Orange Project
We are seeking volunteers to participate in a research study of cognitive and behavioral processes unique to pediatric ADHD. Volunteers are asked to complete assessments of intellectual functioning, academic achievement, and computer-based tasks measuring memory, attention, and problem-solving abilities. All study participants receive a FREE comprehensive research report of current psychological functioning and learning strengths and potential growth areas. Evening and weekend appointments are available!
We use the following multi-method, multi-informant, and multidimensional approach to assess ADHD symptoms in the Little Orange Project:
- Semi-structured diagnostic interview administered with parent(s) and child to understand current and past emotional/behavioral concerns and psychosocial history
- Subjective ratings of emotional/behavioral functioning completed by the parent(s) and classroom teacher to understand functioning in multiple settings (i.e., home and school)
- Assessment of intellectual functioning
- Assessment of academic achievement
- Objective measures of sustained attention, memory, inhibition, and problem solving abilities
- Assessment of symptoms that may (1) better account for attention and learning problems and (2) interfere with functioning at home and school (i.e., depression, anxiety, sleep problems, etc.)
- 10-14 hours of direct observation of the child in the clinical research environment
- Objective measure of activity level with high-precision actigraphs worn on the non-dominant wrist and ankles that assess activity level 16 times per second
Note: Parents receive a research report two weeks after the last assessment session during a debriefing session. The research report summarizes learning strengths and potential growth areas.
Big Orange Project
We are seeking adult volunteers to participate in a research study of
cognitive and behavioral processes unique to adult ADHD. Participants are asked to complete three, two-hour assessment sessions consisting of a brief assessment of intellectual/psychological functioning and
computer-based tasks measuring memory, attention, and problem solving abilities. Compensation may be provided. Evening and weekend appointments are available.
Click here to sign up!
cognitive and behavioral processes unique to adult ADHD. Participants are asked to complete three, two-hour assessment sessions consisting of a brief assessment of intellectual/psychological functioning and
computer-based tasks measuring memory, attention, and problem solving abilities. Compensation may be provided. Evening and weekend appointments are available.
Click here to sign up!
Focus on UT-I (2012-2013)/ Focus on UT-II (2013-2014)
The purpose of this project is to examine factors associated with self-reported attention problems in college students. There are three primary objectives of the proposed investigation: To assess (a) self-reported attention problems in college students; (b) the extent to which self-reported attention problems contribute to both mental health and substance use problems and interfere with academic/cognitive functioning; and (c) the utilization of on-campus student support services by students with self-reported attention problems.
