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Author Spotlight: Integrating Tai Chi with Mindfulness Training to Achieve an Effective Mind-Body Exercise
Published on: July 14, 2023
The appeal of tai chi and complementary therapies for college students with ADHD
Sandra H Sulzer1, Cathleen Trueba2, Alexander K Converse3
1Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences and Utah State University Extension, Utah State University, Logan, Utah, USA.
Abstract:
Background: Developing effective non-pharmacological therapies for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is important. We gauged the likelihood that undergraduates would participate in a trial of tai chi as an intervention for ADHD, and evaluated attitudes toward complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). Methods: We collected survey responses from 47 undergraduates with ADHD and 49 healthy controls, measuring their likelihood of participating in trials of tai chi and other non-pharmacological therapies, along with attitudes toward CAM. We examined the relationship between diagnosis, CAM attitudes, and willingness to participate in a trial. Results: Undergraduates with ADHD showed greater acceptance of CAM therapies. Thirty two percent of students with ADHD expressed strong willingness to participate in a tai chi trial. Conclusion: These results support the feasibility of a trial of tai chi as therapy for undergraduates with ADHD, and suggest this population is receptive toward CAM. Future research should examine why interest in CAM is greater among students with ADHD.
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