Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Adult ADHD: A Randomized Clinical Trial in China

J Atten Disord. 2019 Jul;23(9):1035-1046. doi: 10.1177/1087054717725874. Epub 2017 Sep 2.

Abstract

Objective: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is effective for adult ADHD, and booster sessions may improve long-term outcome. This study was designed to investigate the effects of group CBT and its booster sessions for Chinese adult patients with ADHD.

Method: There were CBT only group ( n = 43), CBT +booster group ( n = 43), and control group with patients on the waiting list ( n = 22). The primary outcome was the score of the ADHD-Rating Scale (ADHD-RS). Secondary outcomes included emotion, executive function (EF), impulsivity, self-esteem, and life quality at 12th and 24th week.

Results: At 12th week, the score of ADHD-RS, EF, and impulsivity showed significant improvement in CBT +booster group comparing with control group. At 24th week, differences between CBT only group and CBT +booster group were not significant.

Conclusion: CBT was effective for Chinese adult patients with ADHD. Booster sessions do not appear to provide additional benefits.

Keywords: ADHD; booster sessions; cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT); randomized controlled trial.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity* / therapy
  • China
  • Cognition
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy*
  • Humans
  • Treatment Outcome