Cognitive Disengagement Syndrome as a Transdiagnostic Construct across ADHD, Autism, and Internalizing Disorders

This study examined Cognitive Disengagement Syndrome (symptoms of fogginess, daydreaming, and slowed behavior) across 958 clinically referred children with ADHD, autism, or internalizing disorders, finding higher CDS levels in autism and internalizing disorders compared to ADHD, with levels increasing in adolescence. Higher CDS scores were significantly associated with reduced quality of life independent of diagnosis, age, or sex.