Audiovisual multisensory integration in young adults with and without a diagnosis of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Abstract

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with behavioural and neurophysiological characteristics. Several cortical structures that are altered in ADHD are involved in the process of multisensory integration (MSI). MSI is a fundamental form of sensory processing involved in many everyday tasks. Therefore, it is important to know whether those with ADHD experience altered MSI. Two different paradigms were used to assess MSI in adults with a diagnosis of ADHD. First, a simple response time (RT) task was completed. Electroencephalography (EEG) analysis revealed that those with ADHD had MSI occur, while there were significant differences in brain activity between groups. Study two employed a two-alternative forced-choice discrimination task. Those with ADHD responded faster than controls. EEG analysis revealed that those with ADHD have enhanced MSI. Activity differences were found in brain regions that are structurally altered in those with ADHD, indicating that structural alterations in ADHD may promote sensory processing.