1Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology at Yeshiva University,2Department of Pediatrics, 3Gruss Magnetic Resonance Research Center, 4Department of Radiology, 5Department of Neuroscience, 6Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Yeshiva University, Bronx, NY, USA

Abstract 

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with a long-term impact on functioning, productivity and quality of life of patients. This impact is largely due to the symptoms of inattentiveness. However, despite its impairing role in the lives of ADHD patients, inattentiveness has been studied relatively less frequently than have symptoms of impulsivity/hyperactivity and problems with executive function. This review therefore seeks to integrate the neuropsychological theories and current findings in the research fields of neuropsychology, neurophysiology, and neuroimaging, in an attempt to gain a more complete understanding of the role that inattentiveness plays in ADHD, as well as to suggest directions for future studies. The need for a more comprehensive understanding of inattentiveness and ADHD, which integrates findings from each of the three disciplines mentioned above, is emphasized.

Keywords

attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder; inattentiveness; brain pathways; neuropathology

[SpringerLink]