The literature review presents an explanation of biofeedback and a critical evaluation of the research pertaining to electroencephalographic (EEG) biofeedback training for the hyperactive and/or learning disabled child. Three hypotheses are examined: whether EEG biofeedback training is efficacious; whether EEG biofeedback training is more…

The optimal stimulaton theory (which proposes that hyperactive children are more readily underaroused than nonhyperactive children and should thus derive greater gains from stimulation added to repetitive copying tasks than comparisons) was tested with 16 adolescents, rating high on attention and behavior problems, and 16 controls. Matched pairs…

Using meta-analysis techniques, the study sought to identify, integrate, and synthesize the literature from 61 articles which review the efficacy of various treatments for hyperactive children. The major objectives were to determine if drugs can be used effectively with hyperactive children, what child and intervention characteristics covary with…

Studied was the comparative effectiveness of dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate for the treatment of severe behavior disorders among 18 children (from 5 to 10 1/2 years of age) hospitalized for neuropsychiatric conditions. (Author)

Phase II of a study on the effectiveness of B. Feingold's recommended diet for hyperactive children involved the nine children (mean age 9 years) who had shown the "best" response to diet manipulation in Phase I. Each child served as his own control and was challenged with specified amounts of placebo and artificial color containing food…

The effects of a structured physical exercise program on the ward behavior of 16 institutionalized hyperactive children (6 to 13 years old) was investigated. Ss were randomly assigned to conditions in which they ran, engaged in calesthenics, or both, for 20 minutes per day, 5 days a week, for 4 weeks. Data from daily behavioral measures were…

The study examined the relationship between cognitive performance and the use of private speech in 20 learning disabled children, aged 81 to 108 months. Half of the children were hyperactive. Each child was given a series of cognitive tasks and played alone in a room for 7 minutes. Videotapes of the free play were later transcribed and coded…

In response to the issues raised by B. Feingold regarding the possible role of food additives as a cause of hyperactivity and learing disability, the Nutrition Foundation organized a critical review of Feinfold's claims by a group of behavioral and medical scientists. Among the cliams made by Feingold was that, when treated with the salicylate and…

The role of pharmacologic agents in the treatment of learning and behavior disorders in children is discussed with respect to the biological basis of these disorders. Illustrative studies dealing with autonomic reactivity and cortical excitability as reflected in the cortical evoked response are presented. The question of the combined effects of…

The paper reviews the research literature and reports a study designed to investigate the relationship between hyperactivity, the related disorders of aggressivity and inattentiveness, and childhood depression in a sample of 18 severely emotionally disturbed boys (5 to 13 years old) served by a residential school and treatment center. Results…

Intended for parents, the booklet provides information on caring for a hyperactive child. Sections cover identification, causes, treatment (including medication, diet, and psychological interventions), prognosis, and resources. (SBH)

The hypothesis that food additives are causally associated with hyperkinesis and learning disabilities in children is reviewed, and available data are summarized. Available from: American Medical Association 535 North Dearborn Street Chicago, Illinois 60610. (JG)