Simulator Driving Abilities, Executive Functions, and Adaptive Behavior Among Adolescents With Complex Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Abstract

Objective: To examines the driving skills, executive functions, and adaptive behavior of adolescents diagnosed with Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) combined with emotional difficulties and/or learning disabilities (complex ADHD), compared to adolescents without ADHD. Method: A cross-sectional study including 30 adolescents with complex ADHD and 33 adolescents without ADHD aged 15 to 18 years. Driving skills on a simulator, executive functions, and adaptive behavior were evaluated. Results: Adolescents without ADHD demonstrated significantly higher total scores on the driving simulator, indicating better driving performance compared to adolescents with complex ADHD. In the complex ADHD group, after controlling for different Conners Comprehensive Behavior Rating Scale-Self Report scales, driving simulator scores were partially correlated with executive functions. Conclusion: These findings emphasize the unique needs of adolescents with complex ADHD. Given the significance of driving in today’s society, it is crucial to consider the development of intervention programs to support this population’s driving skills.