Document Type : Research Paper

Author

Professor of Psychology and Education of Exceptional Children, Department of Educational Sciences, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Tabriz, Iran

10.22054/jpe.2025.81290.2725

Abstract

Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by significant challenges, leading to extensive research on constructs like executive functions. This study aims to explore the bibliometric landscape of executive functions in ADHD through a systematic review. Utilizing the PRISMA model, data was extracted from the Scopus database using the keywords "Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder" and "Executive Function."

The findings reveal studies dating from 1957 to 2024, identifying 27 subject areas, primarily in medicine, psychology, and cognitive neuroscience. Notably, 2023 saw the highest publication rate with 7,995 documents, while only one document was noted between 1957 and 1982, highlighting an upward trend overall in research outputs, despite less focus in 2015-2016.

English, Spanish, and Chinese emerged as the predominant languages, with the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Canada, and China leading in contributions; Iran ranks 22nd. The review indicates that individuals with ADHD exhibit poorer executive functioning compared to their peers, emphasizing deficits in working memory and self-regulation. Barkley’s theory suggests that ADHD involves greater self-regulation issues rather than solely attention deficits, advocating for comprehensive treatment approaches that include behavioral interventions, environmental modifications, and emotional regulation strategies.

Keywords