Zeynep VATANSEVER PINAR, Tuğba ÇEBİOĞLU
Klinik Psikiyatri Dergisi - 2026;29(2):114-128
Objective: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is characterized by executive dysfunction, particularly in working memory, inhibitory control, and attention. Anxiety disorders frequently co-occur with ADHD and may exa-cerbate or obscure these deficits. This study aimed to retrospectively evaluate neuropsychological test performance in ADHD with and without comorbid anxiety. Method: This retrospective, cross-sectional study was conducted at the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Outpatient Clinic of Kartal Dr Lutfi Kirdar City Hospital. Clinical records of patients aged 6-18 years presenting with inattention between January 2023 and April 2024 were reviewed. Performance on the Stroop Color-Word Test, d2 Test of Attention, Digit Span, and Porteus Maze Test was analyzed. Participants were categorized into six groups based on DSM-5 diagnoses: ADHD, ADHD + anxiety, ADHD + other diagnoses, anxiety only, other psychiatric diagnoses, and non-diagnosed. Results: A total of 159 participants (53.5% male; mean age = 14.07+/-2.42 years) were included. Digit Span scores were significantly higher in the non-diagnosed group compared with all diagnostic groups (p<0.01). d2 error rates were highest in the ADHD group (p<0.01). Stroop 4, Stroop 5, and total completion times were significantly longer in the ADHD and ADHD + anxiety groups (p<0.01). Stroop correction scores were elevated in ADHD groups. Discussion: Findings confirmed impairments in working memory, selective attention, and processing speed in ADHD and comorbid groups. Anxiety did not exert a protective effect on inhibitory control but appeared to impose additional burden on working memory. These results underscore the importance of considering anxiety when assessing executive dysfunction in ADHD.
