Child ADHD Paid Research Study
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh are conducting a study to better understand hyperactivity in children with ADHD.
Fast Facts
Children who take intentional breaks from ADHD medication
6-11
Years Old
Compensation
Provided
Conducted in
Pittsburgh, PA
Study Background
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh are conducting a study to better understand hyperactivity in children with ADHD.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh are conducting a study in children ages 6–11 to understand hyperactivity in ADHD and how to measure it using smartwatch technology.
Through the LemurDx study, we aim to better understand kids’ patterns of activity using smartwatch technology that passively collects information like movement, heart rate, and location. By combining this data with details about children’s activities and environments, we hope to create objective, real-world measures of hyperactivity.
Ultimately, the findings from this study could improve how ADHD is assessed and monitored, support the development of more personalized treatment strategies, and enhance the everyday lives of children and families affected by ADHD.
Study Background
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh are conducting a study to better understand hyperactivity in children with ADHD.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh are conducting a study in children ages 6–11 to understand hyperactivity in ADHD and how to measure it using smartwatch technology.
Through the LemurDx study, we aim to better understand kids’ patterns of activity using smartwatch technology that passively collects information like movement, heart rate, and location. By combining this data with details about children’s activities and environments, we hope to create objective, real-world measures of hyperactivity.
Ultimately, the findings from this study could improve how ADHD is assessed and monitored, support the development of more personalized treatment strategies, and enhance the everyday lives of children and families affected by ADHD.
Additional Information
We want to see whether patterns in smartwatch data can help us measure hyperactivity. To do this, we are using LemurDx , a tool that uses wearable sensors to capture real-world data and improve how ADHD symptoms are measured and understood.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Ages 6–11
- Diagnosed with ADHD
- Currently prescribed stimulant medication for ADHD
- Takes “medication holidays” (days off from medication, such as weekends or school breaks)
- Lives with at least one caregiver who can participate in study activities
Exclusion Criteria:
- History of bipolar disorder, psychosis, or low-functioning autism spectrum disorder
- Serious medical or psychiatric conditions that could interfere with participation
- Inability to understand or complete study procedures in English (child or caregiver)
The entire study lasts approximately 1 week. Once enrolled, the study involves:
In the office: 2 visits where your child will complete activities designed to measure hyperactivity. Each visit includes the child wearing a smartwatch, while completing activities that simulate their real life (school tasks, exercise games, and free play). Caregivers complete a diagnostic interview to confirm ADHD symptoms and surveys about their child and family life. The first visit also includes instructions for using the smartwatch at home.
From home: Your child will wear the smartwatch during daily life for one week while you complete brief daily surveys about your child’s activities and experiences. Each survey will take about 15 minutes to complete. We will also ask your child’s teacher to complete a short survey about ADHD symptoms at the end of the week.
As a participant, your family may receive up to $100, a small toy after each office visit, and parking is validated.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.