"Attachment-Based Intervention for Inattention, Hyperactivity, and Impu" by Stephanie M. Ess

Date of Conferral

12-17-2024

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Melanie Shores

Abstract

While the prevailing notion attributes attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) largely to a genetic response, there is increasing evidence of its multifactorial nature, involving both genetic and environmental factors, including the parent–child attachment relationship. Given the limitations of pharmacological and behavioral treatment methods, this study addressed the critical need for alternative ADHD interventions. The purpose of this study was to examine the differences in inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity among toddlers approximately 48 months old in an attachment-based intervention group (n = 63), a control intervention group (n = 58), and a low-risk group not requiring intervention (n = 52). Grounded in Bowlby’s attachment theory and a biopsychosocial framework, this study utilized a quantitative, nonexperimental, comparative design with secondary data analysis. ADHD symptoms were measured postintervention using the preschool version of the Child Behavior Checklist. A one-way analysis of variance revealed differences in attention problems, F(2, 162) = 7.0, p = .001, and ADHD problems, F(2, 162) = 6.0, p = .003, across the three groups, with the attachment-based intervention group showing reductions in attention and ADHD problems compared to the control intervention group and not differing significantly from the low-risk comparison group at postintervention. These findings contribute to the understanding of the efficacy of attachment-based interventions as an alternative treatment approach to traditional treatments for ADHD. This study has positive social implications by informing ADHD treatment approaches, potentially shifting preferences towards family-centered interventions, and improving long-term outcomes for children and their families.

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