Date of Award

4-2022

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Psychological Science

Program

Psychological Science (MS)

First Advisor/Chairperson

Amber LaCrosse

Abstract

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, ADHD, is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders in children. Children who have been diagnosed with ADHD will likely have trouble paying attention, controlling compulsive behaviors, and staying within appropriate activity levels. Diagnosis of ADHD can be somewhat subjective. An article published by Michigan State University’s Todd Elder in 2010 claims that at that time nearly one million American children may have been misdiagnosed with ADHD (Elder, 2010). Review of the literature shows that ADHD can be considered a disorder with significant genetic components. More recent literature points towards the ST3GAL3 gene as a significant source for this genetic correlation. If ST3GAL3 gene plays a significant role in genetically linked ADHD, then we should be able to detect a normal ST3GAL3 gene only in a control group of individuals.. In order to test this hypothesis, Loop Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) was used for rapid amplification of the wild type ST3GAL3 gene target. DNA samples were collected from 80 participants, 40 with a self-reported positive ADHD diagnosis, 40 with no self-reported ADHD diagnosis. This research shows that there is a significant correlation between the mutation of the ST3GAL3 gene and a positive ADHD diagnosis.

Access Type

NMU Users Only

Justification for Restricting Access

The findings in this thesis work are new and innovative. This research can impact the clinical field of psychology if published. Working towards publication could benefit researchers, the clinical community and Northern Michigan University.

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Available for download on Sunday, March 28, 2027

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