Generalization of behavioral and psychostimulant treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): discussion and examples

Behav Res Ther. 1998 Jul-Aug;36(7-8):675-94. doi: 10.1016/s0005-7967(98)00020-5.

Abstract

Assessment and treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are reviewed in order to highlight the importance of examining individual differences in treatment response. It is emphasized that treatment response in children often varies as a function of the domain measured, the setting evaluated, and intensity of the treatment. Three case studies are presented to illustrate this point. The first case study is an example of a child who showed a consistent response to medication across settings and domains and treatment intensities. The second case study is an example of a child who showed differential treatment response as a function of setting and/or treatment intensity, but was consistent across domain. The third case study is an example of a child who showed a differential response to treatment as a function of domain, but was consistent across settings and treatment intensities. These case studies highlight the need for systematic, comprehensive, individualized treatments for children with ADHD.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / diagnosis
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / psychology
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / therapy*
  • Behavior Therapy*
  • Central Nervous System Stimulants / adverse effects
  • Central Nervous System Stimulants / therapeutic use*
  • Child
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Female
  • Generalization, Response*
  • Humans
  • Individuality
  • Male
  • Methylphenidate / adverse effects
  • Methylphenidate / therapeutic use*
  • Outcome and Process Assessment, Health Care

Substances

  • Central Nervous System Stimulants
  • Methylphenidate