The use of stimulants in the treatment of hyperkinesis is discussed in terms of: (1) side effects and long-term consequences; (2) drugs as easy solutions to problems; and (3) the potential for abuse and addiction. This paper stresses the need for a more intelligent and restrained use of stimulants than has been practiced. (Author)

Information regarding critical factors in drug therapy is presented with the hope that it will enable individuals to better monitor the effects of prescribed medication. (MM)

The article lists 20 signs of depression in children which teachers can recognize, along with suggestions on how to cope with the depression. (PHR)

The effect of particular foods on levels of hyperactivity, uncontrolled laughter, and disruptive behaviors was studied in an 8-year-old autistic boy. (Author)

Reports that amphetamine given to normal boys resulted in a marked decrease in motor activity and reaction time, and improved performance on cognitive test, a response similar to those observed in hyperactive children. (SL)

The controversy over the use of drugs centers around the questionable nature of their effectiveness, the adequacy of the research base, the criteria for determining the need for drugs, the monitoring process for drug therapy, and the etiology of hyperactivity. (MV)

The study compared child behavior in 21 child abusive and 21 nonabusive matched comparison families. While independent observations showed few significant differences in rates of either child or parental behaviors, both mothers and fathers in the abusive group rated their children as more aggressive and more hyperactive than did controls.…

Teacher ratings of the anomalous classroom behaviors of hyperactivity, inattention, perceptual-motor impairment, perserveration, and stereotype were examined as predictors of performance of 82 mentally retarded 6-18 year olds on a visual discrimination task. Weak but statistically reliable correlations were obtained. (Author/CL)

This study examined the effects of an acupressure intervention with two adolescents previously diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). An inventory based on standard criteria for diagnosing ADHD was completed by each student, their parents, case workers, and teachers both before and after the intervention. The intervention…

Discusses the question of whether overactive youngsters should receive medication for their condition. (GB)

This article analyses possible treatment for hyperkinetic or hyperactive children after a complete physical examination. Possible aids discussed are drugs, change of environment or curriculum. (JA)

Condensed from a report of a 1971 conference sponsored by the U.S. Office of Child Development and the U.S. Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health and Scientific Affairs. (Editor)

The use of drugs to modify child behavior disorders and the risks involved are discussed. Safeguards are suggested to protect children. (A related article is EA 501 452.) (MF)