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Review of 722 papers finds AI research on ADHD diagnosis grew fast, peaking in 2023

Study title: From machine learning to deep learning in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder diagnosis: A bibliometric analysis of global trends (2011-2024)

A bibliometric review of 722 Scopus-indexed papers from 2011 to 2024 tracked how artificial intelligence has been applied to ADHD prediction. Using Python and VOSviewer, the authors found exponential growth peaking in 2023, a concentration of output in the United States and China, and a technological shift from support vector machines to deep learning with EEG becoming the favored data modality.

Read the study abstract

Background The diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has traditionally relied on subjective clinical interviews. Recent years have witnessed a paradigm shift toward objective, data-driven diagnostics powered by artificial intelligence (AI). Objective This study provides a comprehensive bibliometric review of AI and machine learning (ML) applications in ADHD prediction to map the field's evolution, current trends, and future directions. Methods A structured search of the Scopus database ret…

By the Truvace desk1 min read1 sourceEvidence: Emerging · 30/100 — Commentary, opinion, or narrative review · n = 722 · 1 independent sourcePeer-reviewedTRV-2026-0630· cite & verify
From machine learning to deep learning in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder diagnosis: A bibliometric analysis of global trends (2011-2024)
Hospital Universitari Doctor Peset, València 05 by 19Tarrestnom65. CC BY-SA 4.0 · https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
Trace impact readingContested
P 47The P score combines the specificity and measured human impact of the grounded problem claim with the strength of this Trace’s cited sources.

Both sides are scored from claims and sources, not community votes.

G 47The G score combines the specificity and measured human impact of the grounded gain claim with the strength of this Trace’s cited sources.

In brief

The shift matters because ADHD diagnosis has long depended on subjective clinical interviews, and objective AI tools could change clinical workflows if validated. Uncertainty remains about clinical adoption, as the authors conclude that explainable AI and multimodal data fusion are still needed to convert reported accuracy into usable psychiatric practice.

Main points

  1. Analyzed 722 Scopus publications from 2011 to 2024 using Python and VOSviewer.
  2. Publication output peaked in 2023, indicating exponential growth phase.
  3. Geographical distribution shows 130 papers from United States and 129 from China.
  4. Technological trend shows transition from support vector machines to deep learning architectures.

The gain

A bibliometric review of 722 papers found AI research on ADHD prediction grew exponentially, peaking in 2023, with a shift from SVMs to deep learning and EEG.

The problem

High algorithmic accuracy in AI models for ADHD has not yet translated into routine clinical utility without advances in explainability and multimodal fusion.

The rundown

A structured Scopus search retrieved 722 publications and used bibliometric indicators to assess annual production, geography, and technology. The analysis documents a research duopoly between the US and China and a peak in output in 2023.

The authors report a distinct move from traditional machine learning such as support vector machines to deep learning architectures, and a preference shift toward EEG over fMRI for cost and temporal resolution reasons.

Sources

  1. Peer-reviewedApplied Neuropsychology: Adult2026-08-01

The debate