Cognitive-behavioural group therapy for adolescents with ADHD: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
• Neurodevelopmental Disorders
• Psychotherapy Research

Background:

• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often persists into adolescence, posing significant challenges.
• Existing clinical guidelines suggest non-pharmacological therapies, yet supporting evidence is limited.
• Adolescents with ADHD frequently experience impairing symptoms despite medication adherence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of a 12-week group cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) program for adolescents with ADHD.
• To assess the impact of CBT on ADHD symptom severity in adolescents aged 14-18 years.
• To identify potential moderators and mediators influencing the treatment's effect on ADHD symptoms.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial (RCT) involving 99 adolescents with ADHD.
• Participants were recruited from child psychiatric outpatient units and randomized to either 12-week group CBT or treatment as usual.
• Data collection included adolescent, parent, and teacher reports at baseline, post-intervention, and 9-month follow-up, with clinician-rated functioning assessments.

Main Results:

• The primary outcome measure was the change in symptom scores on the ADHD Rating Scale-IV.
• Assessments were conducted at multiple time points to capture treatment effects.
• Blinded clinician ratings provided objective measures of functioning.

Conclusions:

• The study provides valuable data on the effectiveness of group CBT for adolescent ADHD.
• Findings will inform clinical practice and contribute to evidence-based non-pharmacological treatment options.
• Dissemination includes peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, and a treatment manual.