The Effect of Computer Games on Level of Attention in Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Introduction: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is described by a pattern decreased attention, hyperactivity and impulsivity that usually started in childhood and remain until adulthood. Primary signs of ADHD is treated by medical drugs but other signs, is treatable with combination of approaches. Last researches have adopted software technology like computer games on distraction and limb movement performance. The present study was done about effectiveness of computer games on level of attention in 7 to 12 aged children with ADHD. Materials and Methods: In this research, 18 children with ADHD who refer to psychiatric department of Imam Reza Clinic in Shiraz, selected and assigned semi randomly in two groups; control group and intervention group. Children in intervention group received computer games intervention program for 14 sessions lasting 40 minutes each. A Continues Performance Test (CPT) was used before and after intervention phase to test level of attention. Descriptive statistics and Spearman's correlation coefficient were calculated for statistical analysis of the data using SPSS software version 16. Results: In this research four factor in Continuous Performance Test, the number of correct responses, impulsivity errors, commission and reaction time are presented and analyzed. Statistical results showed significant different on reaction time factor on interventional group after intervention (P=0/02) but in other factors there was not significant different between intervention groups. Conclusion: The results of this study showed that the computer games intervention had a significant impact on the factors of attention of the continuous performance test and the only factor that has improved after intervention was ADHD children's reaction time in the intervention group. Keywords: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Computer games, Level of attention, Continuous Performance Test (CPT)