Short-term effect of American summer treatment program for Japanese children with attention deficit hyperactivity

Yushiro Yamashita1, Akiko Mukasa, Yuko Honda

  • 1Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Kurume University School of Medicine, Fukuoka, Japan. yushiro@med.kurume-u.ac.jp

Brain & Development
|January 20, 2009
PubMed

Insights

The Summer Treatment Program (STP) effectively improved behavior in Japanese children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This intensive 3-week intervention showed significant positive changes across multiple functioning domains.

Area of Science:

  • Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
  • Behavioral Psychology
  • Developmental Psychology

Background:

  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder affecting children.
  • Behavioral interventions are a cornerstone of ADHD management.
  • The Summer Treatment Program (STP) has a proven track record in North America.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy of the Summer Treatment Program (STP) for children with ADHD in Japan.
  • To assess the short-term behavioral outcomes of an intensive, evidence-based intervention for pediatric ADHD.
  • To determine if the STP model is effective outside of North America.

Main Methods:

  • A 3-week intensive Summer Treatment Program (STP) was implemented for 36 children (ages 6-12) diagnosed with ADHD.
  • The program utilized evidence-based behavioral modification techniques, including a point system, daily report cards, positive reinforcement, and time-outs.
  • Parent-reported ADHD rating scales and Strength and Difficulties Questionnaires were used for assessment.

Main Results:

  • Most participants demonstrated significant positive behavioral changes across multiple functional domains.
  • Children showed marked improvement in daily points earned, reflecting reduced behavior frequencies.
  • Statistically significant improvements were observed in ADHD symptoms, oppositional defiant disorder symptoms, and hyperactivity/inattention.

Conclusions:

  • The 3-week intensive Summer Treatment Program (STP) is an effective short-term intervention for Japanese children with ADHD.
  • The program's intensive nature (105 hours over 3 weeks) yielded positive behavioral outcomes comparable to longer programs.
  • The findings support the adaptability and effectiveness of the STP model in diverse cultural contexts.

Related Concept Videos

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder01:30

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects approximately 5-8% of children globally, with around 60-70% of cases persisting into adulthood. ADHD has significant implications for educational attainment, social interactions, and occupational success.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
Autism Spectrum Disorder01:19

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
Behavior Modification01:21

Behavior Modification

Behavioral approaches have often been criticized for ignoring mental processes and focusing solely on observable behavior. However, these approaches provide an optimistic perspective for individuals seeking to change their behaviors. Rather than concentrating on intrinsic personality traits, behavioral approaches suggest that even longstanding habits can be modified by changing the reward contingencies that maintain them.
A real-world application of operant conditioning principles is applied...
Modeling in Therapy01:26

Modeling in Therapy

Modeling, a key technique in therapy, uses observational learning to help clients acquire and practice new skills by watching therapists demonstrate desired behaviors. This approach, rooted in Albert Bandura's concept of vicarious learning, plays a significant role in therapeutic interventions for various psychological conditions, including social anxiety, ADHD, and depression.
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in situations...