Can a Structured Skills Training Program Help Teens with ADHD? A Look at Two Treatment Approaches

What you need to know

• Both a structured skills training program and basic ADHD education helped teens improve their ADHD symptoms and daily functioning
• The more intensive skills training program did not show additional benefits compared to basic education
• Most teens found both programs helpful and would recommend them to others

The Challenge of Teen ADHD

Living with ADHD as a teenager brings unique challenges. Beyond difficulties with focus and impulsivity, teens with ADHD often struggle with completing schoolwork, managing emotions, and navigating social relationships. While medication can help control core ADHD symptoms, many teens need additional support to develop life skills and cope with day-to-day challenges.

Testing Two Treatment Approaches

This study compared two different group therapy approaches for teens with ADHD:

1. A structured skills training program that taught specific techniques for managing ADHD symptoms, regulating emotions, and improving social skills over 14 weekly sessions

2. A basic education program that provided information about ADHD and general coping strategies over 3 sessions

The researchers wanted to see if the more intensive skills training would lead to better outcomes than basic education alone. They followed 184 teens aged 15-18 years old who were randomly assigned to one of the two programs.

What They Found

Surprisingly, both groups showed similar improvements in:

• ADHD symptoms
• Daily functioning at home and school
• Emotional and behavioral problems
• Overall difficulties

The more intensive skills program did not produce better results than the basic education program. However, teens in both groups reported benefits - about 90% said they would recommend their program to others with ADHD.

Why the Similar Results?

There are several possible reasons why the intensive program didn’t show extra benefits:

• Lower attendance in the longer program may have reduced its effectiveness
• Teens might need more time to practice and master the skills
• Basic education about ADHD may be more helpful than expected
• The programs might work differently for different individuals
• Parent involvement might be needed to help teens apply the skills

What This Means for You

If you’re a teen with ADHD or a parent considering treatment options:

1. Both structured skills training and basic ADHD education can be helpful
2. A shorter educational program may be just as beneficial as longer skills training
3. Consider practical factors like time commitment when choosing a program
4. Look for programs that fit your specific needs and challenges
5. Regular attendance and practice are important for getting the most benefit

Conclusions

• Group programs can help teens with ADHD learn to better manage their symptoms
• Basic ADHD education may be just as effective as more intensive skills training
• Treatment choice should consider individual needs and practical constraints like time commitment
• Future programs might benefit from including parents and providing more opportunities to practice skills