A study screened 499 children (ages 7-12) in learning disability and serious emotional disturbance programs for risk of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). High-risk students subsequently underwent a comprehensive assessment for ADHD and comorbid conditions. High-risk children did not differ in symptomatology or comorbidity by special…

Israeli legally blind infants and children (N=182) between the ages of 6 months and 5 years were systematically assessed over a period of 13 years. Behavioral problems were documented in 49%. The most frequent disorders were anxiety disorders, oppositional disorder with or without attention deficit hyperactivity, and avoidant disorder with or…

This introductory article describes following articles that present a variety of models of medication monitoring that can be carried out to ensure that when medication is used to treat attention disorders in children, it is used effectively and safely. Implications for persons working with children with attention deficits are discussed. (CR)

A study conducted reinforcer assessments for three boys (ages 7-9) with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder who alternately received either a placebo or methylphenidate. Methylphenidate altered the relative reinforcing effectiveness of various stimuli that are often used in classroom-based behavioral treatment programs, particularly coupons…

Individualized assessments of the effects of three dosages of methylphenidate were conducted for two students (ages 10-11) with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder within each child's classroom using behavioral, academic, and social measures. At least one or more dosages were associated with improvement for both children in each area.…

States that students with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder require a different sort of structured classroom environment, not necessarily a quiet or outwardly ordered one. Encourages teachers to offer students opportunities to talk and interact, to schedule frequent changes of activity, and to use instructional techniques that actively…

Shows how moving away from the token economy and contingency-contracting concepts of behavior management in the classroom is an effective way to teach self management skills to students with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Supplies detailed instructions for implementing a successful self-management program. (MKA)

Defines the "peaceable classroom" concept, in which children are taught to deal more appropriately with feelings, to solve problems, and to make good decisions. Supplies instructions for classroom lessons to be used with five 12-year-old students. Claims that these lessons can help develop a peaceable classroom environment. (MKA)

Double-blind placebo-controlled procedures examined whether 6 children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder could recognize medication effects. Three children were able to accurately report their medication status at levels greater than chance. Accuracy of reports was related to dosage level, differences in behaviors, and the presence of…

Comparison of 26 hospitalized psychiatric youth with attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) with 27 similar youth without ADHD on the "Freedom from Distractibility" factor of the Wechsler Intelligence Scales for Children III found no significant intergroup differences, thus concluding that this factor is not a valid discriminant…

School nurses play a critical role in the effective school- based treatment of students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). They can help debunk myths associated with medications for ADHD, explain the ongoing nature of treatment for children with ADHD, and help develop behavior support plans. Sidebars offer suggestions for…

A study investigated electroencephalographic (EEG) differences between children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder with reading disabilities (ADHD + RD) (n=20) or without (n=20), and 20 controls. Results indicate differences found in the ADHD + RD group represent an electrophysiological component associated with the reading disability…

Explains characteristics of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): delay in self-regulation; living in the moment; difficulty remaining focused; lag in social development; and the positive characteristics of intuition, spontaneity, energy, creativity, and artistic skills. Sidebars discuss a neurobiological understanding of ADHD and tips…

This study examined the normative and construct equivalence of the teacher IOWA Conners Rating Scale (IOWA) with 3,998 elementary school children in an urban school district. Risk odds ratios were calculated by gender and ethnicity. Significant racial differences suggested that, although there is construct equivalence across racial groups, there…

Objective: This study examined the effectiveness of stimulant medication on multiple domains of functioning in 36 young (5 to 6 years old) children diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Method: Five- and 6-year-old children attending a summer treatment program between 1987 and 1997 underwent a randomized clinical…