Four individuals (ages 5-21) with severe mental retardation and autism were administered Naltrexone. Results indicated a reduction in such symptoms as hyperactivity, aggressiveness, self-injurious behavior, stereotyped behaviors; and promotion of positive social behaviors. Intermittent administration at low doses seemed more beneficial than more…

Investigates the influence of Captain's Log, a computerized cognitive-training system, on the behaviors and performance capabilities of severely disturbed children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (N=4). Results support the expectation that children who are most successful in the training would demonstrate the highest levels of…

A study determined self-reported positive and negative physical, academic, and social effects of stimulant medication on 86 secondary students with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Students reported the medication helped them pay attention, earn better grades, and improve their behavior but were unsure if it helped them on tests or on…

This article explores possible biological factors related to motivation and the relationship of motivation to academic achievement in students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorders. Suggestions are provided for increasing scholastic motivation in this population, including using cooperative learning groups to motivate students to…

A study evaluated the utility of classroom-based functional and adjunctive assessments of problem behaviors for two adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and comorbid oppositional defiant disorder. Classroom interventions derived from information obtained during assessments resulted in reductions in problem behaviors. Teacher…

Examines the impact of ADHD on families' functioning. Reviews recent research indicating that persistence of symptoms into adulthood and high comorbidity with behavior, psychiatric, and mood disorders are major additional stressors for families. Emphasizes that effective management of disorder requires multilevel and multimodal interventions, and…

The factorial and normative data of a teacher rating scale containing the 18 symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) were examined using a sample of 4,009 children and adolescents. Two factors (inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity) were derived. Normative data are presented for a nationally representative sample, and…

The Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder worldview tacitly promotes a teacher-centered, worksheet- and textbook-driven education model. According to current research, all students benefit from project-based environments allowing them to construct new meanings based on their existing knowledge. This article discusses holistic interventions that…

The rush to label schoolchildren as suffering from attention deficit disorder (ADD) or attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has reached nearly epidemic proportions. The diagnosis often meets parents' needs to assign behavior control to Ritalin; it should be an explanation leading to genuine help, not a license for unacceptable student…

Two case studies examined the utility of curriculum-based measurement of math and reading for evaluating the effects of methylphenidate on the academic performance of two students diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Results suggest that the curriculum-based measures were sensitive indicators of the students' responses to the…

A review of 41 studies on pharmacological treatments for children with autism and pervasive personality disorder not otherwise specified, found empirical evidence for significant reductions in hyperactive symptoms was strongest for the antipsychotics, psychostimulants, and naltrexone. A theoretical model is proposed for using attentional…

This commentary discusses the use of pharmacological treatments to reduce over activity and hyperactivity in children with autism. While it concedes that some medications, particularly antipsychotics, can effectively reduce over activity, it cautions that the effects of psychotropic medications on inattention remain poorly defined and stresses the…

Discusses the medical diagnosis of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Describes the nature and origins of the condition and discusses approaches to its management, focusing on the controversy surrounding the social and educational value of the diagnosis. Examines the potential contribution of the ADHD diagnosis in promoting social…

This primer on the medical aspects of treating Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) youth will help counselors feel better informed about the types of medications available, possible side effects, and the advantages and disadvantages for use. It also offers a discussion of the consequences for using interventions requiring medication…

Researchers agree early intervention is crucial to prevent academic underachievement and negative effects on the lives of children, adolescents, and adults affected by attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). If counselors, particularly high school counselors, address the needs of students with ADHD, these students may attain their…