The relationship of activity level ratings and cognitive impulsivity to task performance and academic achievement.

The relationship of activity level ratings and cognitive impulsivity were analyzed in relation to performance of second-graders on several cognitive tasks and standardized achievement tests. Vocabulary was a strong and significant covariate on most dependent measures. In general, impulsivity-reflectivity had a far stronger effect on task performance and academic achievement than did activity level ratings, even when comparisons were made for groups with extremes of activity level ratings. The authors urge further research on the task approaches and compensatory strategies of children who are behaviorally hyperactive but cognitively reflective and academically successful.