Hypnotherapy: a possible alternative for treating pupils affected with attention deficit disorder

The purpose of this study was to ascertain the effectiveness of hypnotherapy in treating attention-deficit-hyperactivity by certified psychologist and physicians. The 7 boys and 4 girls were enrolled in a Special Day classroom for hyperkinesis and behavior problems and were being given methylphenidate (Ritalin). Three attempts were made to hypnotize these subjects; however, the group had to be reduced from 11 to 3 and finally, from 3 to a single child to be successful. A significant improvement from pre- and post-hypnotic sessions was noted.