The effect of positive parenting program training in mothers of children with attention deficit hyperactivity on reducing children's externalizing behavior problems

This study aims to investigate the effect of group positive parenting program training on reducing externalizing behaviors in children with attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD) in Turkmen families.

In this clinical trial in 2013, 22 mothers of children with ADHD from Kalaleh, Golestan Province, were randomly divided into two groups: positive parenting program group during 8 sessions (n=10) and control group (n=12). Data were collected using the parent-report form of the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). Data were then analyzed using SPSS 18 by means of ANCOVA, independent t-test, and chi-square tests.

The results showed that in the experimental group, children’s externalizing behavior significantly reduced after group positive parenting program training compared to the control group (P<0.004). Positive parenting program produced a modest effect size.

Since positive parenting program training for mothers is effective in reducing children’s externalizing behavior, this training program is recommended along with pharmacotherapy to be implemented to reduce behavior problems in children with ADHD.