Leikauf JE, Correa C, Bueno AN, Sempere VP, Williams LM. (2021). StopWatch: Pilot study for an Apple Watch application for youth with ADHD. DIGITAL HEALTH. https://doi.org/10.1177/20552076211001215
A study was conducted to test an application developed for a wearable device as a non-pharmacologic approach for managing attention-deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms in young people. StopWatch collects movement data and provides gentle haptic feedback, technology that uses touch sensory experiences such as vibrations and motions, to nudge users to attend to symptoms. During periods of intentional focus, the StopWatch gives haptic feedback about users’ movements. The application (StopWatch) was evaluated in a six-week pilot to assess feasibility of use of the app. Thirty-two young persons (ages 8 to 17 years old) with ADHD diagnosis and an iPhone were recruited. Assessments were administered weekly during the pilot study and most participants completed at least two assessment timepoints. Results indicated significant improvements in parent-rated youth ADHD symptoms over time. Qualitative feedback about the app was collected from participants and their parents. Users recommended improving the visual tracking feature and ability for users to adjust the movement threshold for haptic feedback. Feasibility outcomes supported favorable potential for wearable applications for targeting ADHD symptoms.