Ardoin,S.P., & Martens,B.K. (2000).
Testing the ability of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder to accurately report the effects of medication on their behavior.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis,
33, 593-610.
Children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are often
treated with central nervous system stimulants, making the evaluation
of medication effects an important topic for applied behavior analysts.
Because assessment protocols emphasize informant reports and direct
observations of child behavior, little is known about the extent to which
children themselves can accurately report medication effects. Double-blind
placebo-controlled procedures were used to examine whether 6 children with
ADHD could recognize the effects of their medication. The children
were given math worksheets to complete for 15 min during each of 14
sessions while on medication and placebo. Children completed a self-evaluation
form at the end of each sesion, and ratings were compared to observed
behavior and academic performance. Results indicated that 3 children
were able to accurately report their medication status at levels greater
than chance, whereas the accuracy of reports by all children was related
to dosage level, differences in behavior, and the presence of adverse effects.
The implications of these results for placebo-controlled research, self-monitoring
of dosage levels, and accuracy training are discussed.
DESCRIPTORS: _attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, methylphenidate,
dextro-amphetamine, self-evaluation, adverse effects