Is cognitive training an effective tool for improving cognitive function and real-life behaviour in healthy children and adolescents? A systematic review

Abstract

Computerised cognitive training (CCT) has been applied to improve cognitive function in pathological conditions and in healthy populations. Studies suggest that CCT produces near-transfer effects to cognitive functions, with less evidence for far transfer. Newer applications of CTT in adults seem to produce certain far-transfer effects by influencing eating behaviour and weight loss. However, this is more unexplored in children and adolescents. We conducted a systematic review of 16 studies with randomised controlled design to assess the impact of CCT on cognitive functioning and real-life outcomes, including eating behaviour, in children and adolescents with typical development (PROSPERO registration number: CRD42019123889). Results show near transfer effects to working memory, with inconsistent results regarding far-transfer effects to other cognitive functions and real-life measures. Long-term effects show the same trend. Far-transfer effects occurred after cue related inhibitory control and attentional training, although effects seem not to last. CCT may be a potential weight-loss treatment option but more research is needed to determine the specific characteristics to enhance treatment outcomes.