The effects of a stress-management program on self-concept, locus of control, and the acquisition of coping skills in school-age children diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
OBJECTIVE
What is the effectiveness of a stress-management program on self-concept, locus of control, and acquisition of appropriate coping strategies in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?


METHODS
Forty-two children with ADHD (age range 9-12) were randomly assigned to a control group, a therapist-led group, or a group in which the stress-management techniques were taught by the parents. The subjects were pre- and posttested on self-concept, locus of control, and acquisition of coping skills.


RESULTS
Although there were no significant changes in any of the three groups for acquisition of coping skills, the children in the therapist-led group reported more appropriate coping strategies.


CONCLUSIONS
Involving parents in a cognitive-behavioral approach could improve parent-child relationships and further increase the opportunities for successful academic and social functioning.
Gonzalez
Lois O
LO
Research Associate, University of South Florida, College of Nursing, Tampa, USA. logonzal@hsc.usf.edu
Sellers
Eric W
EW
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D001289:Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000523:psychology; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007389:Internal-External Control; D007858:Learning; D008297:Male; D015397:Program Evaluation; D011897:Random Allocation; D012064:Relaxation Therapy; D012649:Self Concept; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000628:therapy*; D016896:Treatment Outcome