Date of Award

2018

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Psychology

Abstract

Inconsistencies have been identified regarding the executing functioning (EF) profile of children with ADHD and comorbid internalizing symptoms. Some research has found that internalizing symptomology may buffer against EF impairment among children with ADHD whereas other findings suggest a cumulative effect resulting in greater EF impairment. Similarly, symptoms indicative of emotional dysregulation are often identified in those with ADHD, both with and without internalizing symptoms. However, the impact of emotional dysregulation on EF is unclear. The current study utilized archival data and examined the relationship between internalizing symptoms, emotional dysregulation, and EF among 95 children diagnosed with ADHD through a university-based ADHD testing clinic. It was hypothesized that there should be a positive correlation between EF impairment and internalizing symptoms as well as EF and emotional dysregulation. It was also hypothesized that emotional dysregulation should moderate the relationship between ADHD and EF. Specifically, as emotional dysregulation increases, EF impairment should become more prominent, regardless of the level of internalizing symptoms. Results revealed that the impact of emotional dysregulation varied based on the specific EF examined (i.e., response time, inhibition), the method of measurement (behavioral ratings versus a performance-based measure), as well as the source of ratings (parent versus teacher). Specifically, performance-based measures of EF were not correlated with ratings of internalizing symptoms or emotional dysregulation. Additionally, internalizing symptoms were associated with parent, but not teacher, ratings of inhibition. As predicted, both parent and teacher ratings of overall EF were associated with ratings of internalizing symptoms as well as ratings of emotional dysregulation. Regression analyses revealed that parent, but not teacher, ratings of emotional dysregulation moderated the relationship between internalizing symptoms and ratings of EF impairment. The results of this study have potential implications for the assessment and treatment of children with ADHD.

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