A new method for the neuropsychological assessment of motivational self-regulation in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder

Abstract

Difficulties in pursuing intended goals over the longer term in the face of competing short-term incentives are among the main features of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Impairments of the brain's reward system and a resulting intolerance of delayed reward (delay aversion, DA) are among the most important hypothesized causes of these difficulties. The aim of this doctoral dissertation was to overcome known methodological difficulties in the neuropsychological measurement of DA by developing, validating, and applying a new computerized neuropsychological test, the Continuous Delay Aversion Test (ConDAT). The ConDAT continuously confronts the examinee with the decision whether or not to invest time for a steadily diminishing increase in reward. Through this principle of continuous choice and its non-material adaptive reward system, the ConDAT differs from previous paradigms based on prospective choices between two types of reward.