Psychosocial Treatment for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Adults

Treatment of Meta-Cognitive Deficits in Adults With ADHD

This study will determine the effectiveness of group cognitive-behavioral therapy as compared to a problem-solving social support group in treating problems of time management, organization, and planning in adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

ADHD is a chronic neurobiological condition that affects people of all ages, genders, and races. Symptoms of ADHD may include, but are not limited to, the following: poor attention span; physical restlessness or hyperactivity; excessive impulsivity; chronic procrastination; frequently losing things; poor organization, planning, and time management skills; and excessive forgetfulness. Not every person with ADHD exhibits all of these symptoms, and the severity of the disorder can range from mild to severe. While there is no cure for ADHD, the condition can be managed with an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment. Left untreated, individuals with ADHD may experience significant impairment in social, emotional, occupational, and academic functioning. Stimulant and non-stimulant medications are usually effective in alleviating symptoms of ADHD in adults. However, some research suggests that medications may not effectively treat self-management functioning problems and that as many as one-third of adults with ADHD have inadequate responses to medication treatment. Additional research on the benefits of psychosocial treatments for ADHD in adults is needed. This study will determine the effectiveness of group cognitive-behavioral therapy as compared to a problem-solving social support group in treating problems of time management, organization, and planning in adults with ADHD.

Individuals interested in participating in this study will first undergo an assessment of their eligibility for inclusion in the study. The assessment will last approximately 6 hours, but can be broken up into as many as 4 separate visits. Eligible participants will be randomly assigned to either receive group cognitive-behavioral therapy or join a problem-solving social support group. Both groups will meet once a week for 12 weeks. Each session will last roughly 2 hours and will focus on building time management, organizational, and planning skills. Time management, planning, and organizational skill levels will be assessed at the treatment mid-point, immediately following the intervention, and at 3 and 6 months following the treatment. Self-esteem and symptoms of depression and anxiety will also be measured at these visits.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Suspected of having or have been diagnosed with ADHD
• May potentially benefit from the ADHD group treatment

Exclusion Criteria:

• Any overt cognitive disability (e.g., Alzheimer's disease, mental retardation)
• Deemed not to potentially benefit from the proposed ADHD group treatment