Impact of Training Self-regulation of Attentional and Motivational Behaviors, and Verbal Self-instruction on ADHD Symptoms Amelioration

A three-dimensional instructional intervention (self-regulation of attentional behaviors, self-regulation of motivational behaviors, and verbal selfinstruction) was conducted to ameliorate ADHD (attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder) symptoms.

60 third grade male students with ADHD were screened and diagnosed using CSI-4 and DSM-4 criteria. The subjects were trained to apply the mentioned cognitive skills, and then a follow-up study was done.

The results display a significant difference for pretest-post test, and followup treatments (P<0.01). Post hoc analysis indicates that self-regulation of attentional behaviors had a more considerable effect in comparison with the other two treatments.

These findings suggest that teaching cognitive instructions to children with ADHD can improve ADHD symptoms.