ADHD

Question 1

Describe the tripartite modal of executive function, name the three components, and identify a test for each

Answer 1

1. Holding and mental working with information “in mind” (working mem).
   - Digit or pointing (how many can you remember.
2. Resisting temptations, not acting impulsively or prematurly, overridng automatic behaviour.
   - stroop test (colours in colours)
   - Flanker test (arrows facing every which way)
3. fluidly changing perpectives or approaches to solving a problem adjusting to new demands, switching between priorities or tasks
   - wisconsin card sort (sort cards into different categories)

Question 2

Differentiate the orbitofrontal and dorsolateral subdivisions of the prefrontal cortex (location/behvaiour)

Answer 2

Orbitofrontal circuit dysfunction (behind eyes on either side)
- impulsive, socially inappropriate, poor safety judgement, can’t evalute rewards or punishments, don’t learn from mistakes.

Dorsolateral circuit dysfunction (on top of head and on either side)
- distractible, disorganized, perseverative, difficulty multitasking, poor time management and prioritization.

Question 3

Identify consequences major frontal lobe damage

Answer 3

-Abulia (lack of drive)
- Return to primitive reflexes (snout)
- utilization behaviour

Question 4

Provide a profile of ADHD: major symptoms, neurobiology, and treatment

Answer 4

Key Symptoms: extreme inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity

Neurobiology:
- reduced activity and volume of PFC (aging makes the thinning slower overtime)
- 1/2 executive circuit (inattention) dlPFC
2/2 reward circuit (lack motivation)
- evidence of hypoactive dopamine system.

Treatement:
medication that acts upon dopamine and nireepinephren systems in PFC.