An Evaluation of the Structure of Attention in Adolescence

Dev Neuropsychol. 2023 Jul;48(4):162-185. doi: 10.1080/87565641.2023.2213789. Epub 2023 May 22.

Abstract

This study evaluated the factor structure of attention, considering internal and external attention, and juxtaposed alongside processing speed (PS) and working memory (WM). We expected the hypothesized model to fit better than unitary or method factors. We included 27 measures with 212 Hispanic middle schoolers from Spanish-speaking backgrounds, where a substantial proportion were at risk for learning difficulties. Confirmatory factor analytic models separated factors of PS and WM, but the final model did not align with theoretical predictions; rather only measurement factors emerged. Findings extend and refine our understanding of the structure of attention in adolescents.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Attention*
  • Cognition
  • Humans
  • Memory, Short-Term*
  • Processing Speed