Executive function training for 12–17-year-olds
Official title: Understanding Mediating and Moderating Factors That Determine Transfer of Working Memory Training in Adolescents
Run by Northeastern University · NCT07147894 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project will test six different executive-function training programs to see which help 12–17-year-olds with and without ADHD improve working memory, attention, and self-control.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 12 Years to 17 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 780 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Northeastern University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Boston, Massachusetts) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | December 14, 2025 |
| Main results expected | June 30, 2028 |
| Study ends | June 30, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | December 23, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT07147894 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are 12–17-year-olds who can speak English or Spanish, have a caregiver available to act as a training aide, and are willing to be randomized and follow the assigned protocol, including attending 40 sessions over four weeks.
✕Probably not a fit
Children taking ADHD stimulant medication, those with intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, psychosis, significant sensory impairments, or organic neurological disorders are excluded and unlikely to benefit from this protocol.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
Researchers will randomize adolescents (about half with ADHD) to one of six training setups that vary features such as gamified versus nongamified n‑back tasks, multi-domain exercises, task load, and motivational coaching. Participants and a caregiver training aide will complete 40 training sessions over four weeks and complete cognitive tests and questionnaires before and after the program. The study will track adherence to the schedule and measure changes in cognitive and psychological outcomes. Analyses will compare effects in adolescents with and without ADHD and explore individual characteristics that predict who benefits most.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the programs could improve working memory, attention, and self-control in teens, which may translate into better school performance and daily functioning.
How similar studies have gone: Prior small trials of n‑back and other cognitive training approaches have produced modest working-memory gains and some promise for gamified or coached programs, but overall evidence for durable, real-world benefits—especially for ADHD symptoms—is mixed.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 12-17 years old. * Child must have a caregiver (parent/guardian) who is available to participate as a training aide. * Child and parent/caregiver are able to understand/speak adequate English or Spanish to follow and participate in study procedures * Both child and parent/guardian are willing to give informed consent/assent, be randomized to either intervention condition, and be willing to follow the assigned study protocol. * \~50% of the participants: Meet criteria for ADHD DSM-5 diagnosis. Exclusion Criteria: * Child is taking ADHD medication/stimulants. * Child has been formally identified as intellectually disabled. * Abnormal visual acuity or hearing challenges that are prohibitive to participating in the intervention/assessment. * History of organic mental disorders (conditions or disturbances that may be caused by injuries and/or neurodegenerative diseases affecting brain tissues), psychosis, history of autism spectrum disorders, intellectual disability, or active substance use or suicidal ideation (such individuals will be referred to psychiatric services). * Major sensory or motor impairment that would preclude valid cognitive testing. * Participants with color blindness, if they are unable to discriminate the task relevant stimuli. * Populations considered vulnerable such as wards and those with neurological or other health conditions that may prevent the ability to give informed consent.
Where it's running
-
Northeastern University
Boston, Massachusetts, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Aaron Seitz, PhD — Northeastern University
- Study coordinator: Audrey Carrillo, MA
- Email: a.carrillo@northeastern.edu
- Phone: (626) 482-8091
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.