Randomized Controlled Trial of Exercise for ADHD and Disruptive Behavior Disorders

Area of Science:

• Child Psychology
• Behavioral Science
• Public Health

Background:

• Children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and disruptive behavior disorders often face challenges in urban, low-resource settings.
• After-school programs offer a potential avenue for intervention, but their effectiveness requires rigorous evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and impact of a 10-week after-school exercise program for children with ADHD and/or disruptive behavior disorders in an urban poor community.
• To compare the effects of an exercise program versus a sedentary attention control program on cognitive and behavioral outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Randomized controlled trial with 35 children (19 exercise, 16 control).
• Pre-/posttest collection of cognitive and behavioral outcomes.
• Intent-to-treat mixed models and effect size calculations to analyze group-time and attendance interactions.

Main Results:

• High feasibility demonstrated by 86% retention and 60% attendance.
• Null findings for the primary outcome (parent-reported executive function).
• Exercise group showed benefits in hyperactivity (d=0.47) and verbal working memory (d=0.26); control group showed benefits in visuospatial working memory and oppositional defiant symptoms.

Conclusions:

• While not improving executive function, the exercise program was feasible and showed positive effects on specific symptoms.
• Programmatic elements like routines and adult attention are crucial for children with ADHD and disruptive behavior disorders.
• After-school programs can be valuable for underserved urban youth with behavioral challenges.