AHAD Abstract

Comparative Outcomes of Children with ADHD: Treatment vs. Delayed Treatment Control Condition

Kristie P. Koenig, PhD, OTR/L, and Moya Kinnealey, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA, both of Temple University, are collaborating with Gail E. Huecker, MS, OTR/L, of OT4Kids in a research study that is looking at comparative outcomes of occupational therapy using sensory integration in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) who receive direct intervention versus a wait-list control condition. An ADHD diagnosis is based on a variety of behavioral symptoms and does not presume to identify a cause. From an occupational therapy standpoint, therapists look at the sensory and neurological underpinnings that contribute to these behaviors. The research questions posed were as follows: 1) What are the Sensory, Neurological and Behavioral symptoms in children diagnosed with ADHD?, and 2) Do symptoms change with occupational therapy intervention using a sensory integration approach? The study is examining the effectiveness of occupational therapy using a sensory integration approach on behavior, sensory processing, and neurological outcomes. Specific outcome measures are the Sensory Profile, Sensory Integration and Praxis Tests, Behavioral Style Questionnaire, Conners’ Parent Rating Scales-Revised, and the Quick Neurological Screening Test. Study participants have been diagnosed with ADHD and are on medications to treat the symptomatology. All study participants are pre- and posttested after 40 1-hour treatment sessions or within 4 to 6 months after placed in a wait-list condition. Study participants (100 in treatment group, 50 in wait-list group) range in age from 4 to 8 years and have never received sensory integration intervention. Participant testing will be completed by the winter 2005.

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