Methylphenidate and cognitive therapy in children with attention deficit disorder: a double-blind trial

Stimulant medications have been the treatment of choice for children with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), yet long-term benefits have not been found. The present study examined the ability of an adjunctive cognitive behavioral self-control therapy program to improve upon these long-term results. Findings only partially supported the efficacy of the cognitive therapy, as demonstrated on the Matching Familiar Figures Test of impulsivity. However, this improvement did not persist over time. Results are discussed in terms of the need for pediatricians to consider individual differences in therapeutic response across patients.