Study Traces Origins of Neurocognitive Deficits

Researchers from the University of Montreal and CHU Sainte-Justine Research Centre, have traced the origins of ADHD, substance abuse and conduct disorder, and found that they develop from the same neurocognitive deficits — which in turn explains why they often occur simultaneously. “Psychopathology exists on a multiple continua of brain function. Some of these dimensions contribute to a multitude of problems, others contribute to specific problems. Together, they explain patterns of comorbidity, such as why ADHD and conduct problems co-occur with substance misuse at such a high rate,” explained the study’s lead author. The implications of the study suggest that clinicians can manage multiple psychiatric problems by focusing on how a young person is functioning on a few key neurocognitive dimensions. The next step involves developing evidence-based intervention strategies that will target three areas of the brain function. To read more about this study, click here.