Quick Search: ADHD | Hyperactivity | Treatment
School-focused interventions are aimed at enhancing academic performance, and improving classroom behaviour and peer relationships. These may be targeted specifically to one child, or integrated into classroom routines.1-3
These should include:
Many of the techniques described for behavioural therapy at home also apply in the classroom setting. A summary of effective behavioural techniques for children with ADHD that can be implemented in the classroom is given below.
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| Technique | Description | Example |
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| Positive reinforcement | Providing rewards or privileges contingent on the child's performance | Child completes an assignment and is permitted to play on the computer |
| Time-out | Removing access to positive reinforcement contingent on performance of unwanted or problem behaviour | Child hits sibling impulsively and is required to sit for 5 minutes in the corner of the room |
| Response cost | Withdrawing rewards or privileges contingent on the performance of unwanted or problem behaviour | Child loses free time privileges for not completing homework |
| Token economy | Combining positive reinforcement and response cost. The child earns rewards and privileges contingent on performing desired behaviours and loses rewards and privileges based on undesirable behaviour | Child earns stars for completing assignments and loses stars for getting out of seat. The child cashes in the sum of stars at the end of the week for a prize. |
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Reproduced with permission from Pediatrics, Vol. 108, pages 1033–1044, Copyright © Oct 2001 by the AAP.
References:
1. American Academy of Pediatrics Subcommittee on Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Committee on Quality Improvement. Clinical practice guideline: Treatment of the school-aged child with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Pediatrics 2001; 108: 1033–44.
2. Taylor E, Döpfner M, Sergeant J, Asherson P, Banaschewski T, Rothenberger A, et al. European clinical guidelines for hyperkinetic disorder - first upgrade. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2004; 13: I7–I30.
3. Dulcan M. Practice parameters for the assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, and adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. J Am Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry 1997; 36: 85S–121S.