"My mom calls it Annaland": A Qualitative Study of Phenomenology, Daily Life Impacts, and Treatment Considerations of Sluggish Cognitive Tempo. Issue 6 (April 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Becker, Stephen P.; Fredrick, Joseph W.; Foster, Josalyn A.; Yeaman, Kiley M.; Epstein, Jeffery N.; Froehlich, Tanya E.; Mitchell, John T.
• Is Part Of: Journal of attention disorders. Volume 26:Issue 6(2022)
• Page Start: 915
• Page End: 931
• Publication Date: 2022-04
• Subjects: ADHD -- inattention -- intervention -- qualitative -- sluggish cognitive tempo; Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder -- Periodicals; Attention -- Periodicals; 616.8589
• DOI: 10.1177/10870547211050946
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1087-0547

Abstract

Objective: To conduct qualitative analysis of interviews to understand phenomenology, daily life impact, and treatment considerations of sluggish cognitive tempo (SCT) behaviors in children and adolescents.Method: Youth with elevated SCT symptoms ( N = 15, ages 9–16 years) and their parents completed interviews focused on their perception and daily life impact of SCT behaviors. Parents were also asked about intervention targets.Results: Parents and youth had both negative and positive perceptions of SCT, with SCT fostering creativity/imagination and a break from stressors while also negatively impacting daily functioning. The domains most frequently selected by parents as SCT intervention targets were academics, emotions, mind wandering, morning routines, and self-esteem.Conclusion: Children and their parents share negative and positive views of SCT behaviors, while also detailing specific ways that SCT negatively impacts day-to-day functioning. This study offers insights into possible intervention targets as provided by youth and parents directly impacted by SCT.