Impulsivity in Learning Disabled Children: Past Research Findings and Methodological Inconsistencies

Abstract

Literature which either supports or refutes a higher incidence of cognitive impulsivity in learning disabled (LD) children is critically reviewed to illustrate past inconsistencies in methodology and resulting interpretive distortions. Issues addressed include: the inappropriateness of generalizing from findings based on sample-specific methodologies with the Matching Familiar Figures Test (MFFT), the lack of research incorporating MFFT norms, inconsistent administration of the MFFT, and inconsistencies in sample characteristics. Cognitive-tempo classification methodologies are also discussed. Although conclusions suggest some evidence of a cognitive impulsivity-LD link, such a connection is clouded by past methodological inconsistencies. Methodological changes are proposed to aid future researchers in clarifying the relationship between impulsivity and LD.