Psychosocial interventions used to treat children with ADHD: safety and efficacy

J Psychosoc Nurs Ment Health Serv. 2008 Aug;46(8):49-57. doi: 10.3928/02793695-20080801-04.

Abstract

Although stimulant therapy is the most common treatment for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children, it is not always effective in reducing behavioral symptoms. As a result, research on psychosocial interventions has progressed in recent years. This article provides a synopsis of psychosocial interventions for childhood ADHD, with an emphasis on basic behavior management principles, evidence-based interventions, and safety issues. Developmental issues that distinguish psychosocial interventions for children and adolescents are highlighted, and practical recommendations for collaborating with mental health professionals are provided.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / psychology
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / therapy*
  • Behavior Therapy / methods*
  • Central Nervous System Stimulants / adverse effects
  • Central Nervous System Stimulants / therapeutic use
  • Child
  • Chronic Disease
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Evidence-Based Medicine
  • Humans
  • Nurse's Role
  • Parent-Child Relations
  • Parents / education
  • Parents / psychology
  • Peer Group
  • Psychiatric Nursing / organization & administration
  • Psychology, Adolescent
  • Psychology, Child
  • Reward
  • Safety Management / methods*
  • Social Adjustment
  • Social Behavior
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Central Nervous System Stimulants