cqvip:Objective: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)- occurs more freq uently in male children and adolescents than in females, with a ratio of approxi mately 3 to 1. We determined whether psychophysiological differences are associa ted with the expression of ADHD in males and females, using simultaneously recor ded electroencephalography (EEG) and electrodermal activity (EDA). Methods: Quan titative EEG and EDA measures were acquired simultaneously and continuously (2 m in) during an eyes closed resting condition for 70 ADHD adolescents (48 males, 2 2 females) and their age- and sex- matched controls. Results: Males and female s with ADHD were differentiated by both EEG theta activity and EDA. ADHD males s howed increased theta (widespread), whereas ADHD females showed a localised fron tal enhancement of theta with reduced rate of EDA decrement. These sex differenc es were unrelated to ADHD subtype. Conclusions: These findings suggest that diff erent psychophysiological processes may underlie ADHD in each sex. The profile o f theta enhancement in ADHD males is consistent with a developmental deviation m odel of ADHD, whereas ADHD in females may be better understood within an arousal model, which emphasizes both central and autonomic function. Significance: Thes e findings highlight the potential for concurrent EDA measures to inform EEG stu dies of ADHD, particularly in regard to sex differences.
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