The ADHD Camp: Long-term effects of an intensive behavioral intervention for children with ADHD

Abstract

In the field of child and adolescent psychotherapy, the attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most frequently diagnosed disorders. Numerous studies have demonstrated the importance of behavioral therapeutic interventions for this disorder. As many intervention programs are extremely time-consuming, the ADHD Camp was developed to offer a time-economic therapeutic program. The present study focuses on the long-term effects (6 and 12 months after completion of the treatment) of this therapeutic approach. Therefore, a comprehensive functional (neuropsychological) and behavioral assessment was realized. To survey behavioral problems, parents and teachers were assessed separately. Treatment effects were assessed by repeated measures MAN(C) OVAS. The results show a significant improvement in functional and behavioral parameters. Parents reported a higher decrease of behavioral problems than teachers did. To ensure that effects are not influenced by normal aging processes,we included age as a covariate. The ADHD Camp can be regarded as an effective therapeutic approach in the treatment of childhood ADHD. Achieved improvements in functional and behavioral performance show long-term stability, which highlights the relevance of intensive behavioral interventions.