Psychometric Properties of Attention Measures in Young Children with Neurofibromatosis Type 1: Preliminary Findings

Children with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) often demonstrate difficulties with attention and executive functioning that can be evident starting at a young age. There has been little research about which measures of attention are most suitable for use with young children with NF1. This pilot study explored several computerized measures of attention, a digits forward task, and parent report measures of attention to compare their reliability, validity, and the degree to which they capture attention difficulty in this population. Participants with NF1 ages 4 to 6 years were seen for one (n=2) or two (n=18) time points. Statistical analyses for evaluating evidence for test-retest reliability, convergent and discriminant validity, practice effects, and identification of difficulties were conducted. Each measure demonstrated relative strengths and weaknesses, and there may not be a “one size fits all” measure for use with young children with NF1. However, the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function Preschool/Second Edition, Conners Early Childhood Inattention/Hyperactivity Scale, and the Conners Kiddie Continuous Performance Test Second Edition generally had the highest reliability and most evidence of validity. More specific recommendations are provided for the appropriate measure to use in clinical and research batteries.