Effects of dextroamphetamine on the cognitive and social play of a preschooler with ADHD.
This study investigates how deficits in attention and impulse control are reflected in the social and cognitive play of a 4-year-old boy with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. In addition, an A-B-A-B reversal design was employed to evaluate the effectiveness of dextroamphetamine (2.5 mg, twice a day) for treatment of preschool attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. The most dramatic effects of medication were observed on the level of sustained attention and the pattern of cognitive play. Sustained attention during play and in a structured group activity improved, and play became more sequentially organized and symbolic. Results are discussed with respect to the following: 1) attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and preschool play; 2) the efficacy of psychostimulant medication; and 3) the adequacy of teacher ratings versus direct observation in measuring medication response.
Department of Psychiatry, Medical College of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia.
S M
SM
Alessandri
K
K
Schramm
D001288:Attention / Q000187:drug effects*; D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000523:psychology; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003913:Dextroamphetamine / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004519:Education, Special; D006801:Humans; D007175:Impulsive Behavior / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000523:psychology; D008297:Male; D010988:Play and Playthings; D012917:Social Adjustment; D012931:Social Environment
D003913:Dextroamphetamine