Differential Effects of Methylphenidate on Problem Solving in Adults With ADHD

Abstract

Objective: Two studies were performed to assess both divergent and convergent thinking in adults with ADHD. Method: The first study compared the problem-solving abilities of healthy participants ( N = 144) and unmedicated adults with ADHD ( N = 144). In the second study, problem-solving abilities of adults with diagnosed ADHD ( N = 22) were examined twice, that is, on and off methylphenidate (MPH), and compared with the performance of a healthy control group ( N = 22). Convergent thinking was measured using a Tower of London task, whereas divergent thinking was assessed using verbal fluency tasks. Results: Adults with ADHD off MPH displayed marked deficits of both divergent and convergent thinking. MPH treatment resulted in a marked improvement of convergent thinking, while no effect of medication was found regarding divergent thinking. Conclusion: Pharmacological treatment of adults with ADHD revealed a differential effect of MPH on problem solving abilities. ( J. of Att. Dis. 2011; 15(2) 161-173)