Finding what makes working memory training help teens with and without ADHD
Understanding Mediating and Moderating Factors that Determine Transfer of Working Memory Training
['FUNDING_R01'] · NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY · NIH-11178685
This project compares different types of brain-training programs to find which ones help adolescents, including those with ADHD, improve memory and thinking skills.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11178685 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
You would be part of a large effort that enrolls hundreds of adolescents and randomly assigns them to different training programs so results are fair and comparable. The study compares common training 'ingredients' such as gamified tasks, multi-domain exercises, coaching, and a basic non-gamified n-back program using the same set of outcome tests for everyone. Researchers collect detailed data across age, sex, and ADHD status to see who benefits and why, building an open dataset for others to use. The goal is to make results more reliable and reproducible so future programs can be based on solid evidence.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adolescents (teens) both with and without ADHD who can participate in repeated cognitive training sessions and outcome testing.
Not a fit: Adults, very young children, or people whose memory problems come from severe neurological damage may not benefit from the findings or be eligible to participate.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to training methods that reliably improve working memory and everyday thinking for teens with ADHD and typically developing peers.
How similar studies have performed: Previous brain-training studies have produced mixed results and commercial claims; this large randomized comparison is novel in its scale and rigor.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SEITZ, AARON R — NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: SEITZ, AARON R
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions: Acquired brain injury, Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder