Effect of cognitive behavioral play therapy on aggression anxiety perceived peer acceptance and academic achievement among children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Abstract

The present study utilized experimental method with a pretest, posttest control group design. The sample comprised 30 children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) of 8-10 years age. Both boys and girls were part of this experiment. Cognitive Behavioral Play Therapy (CBPT) was used as an interventional technique for subjects. Dependent variables were Aggression, Anxiety, Perceived Peer Acceptance and Academic Achievement. MANOVA and t-test were used for data analysis. The prevalence rate of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder was found to be 4.25%. Results indicated a significant effect of cognitive behavioral play therapy on aggression, anxiety, perceived peer acceptance and academic achievement among children with ADHD. The effect size was found for aggression is 75%, for anxiety 58%, for perceived peer acceptance 46% and for academic achievement 78%. Conclusion: This therapy which is a mixed approach of traditional play activities and cognitive behavioral techniques is effective in reduction of aggression, anxiety and improvement in perceived peer acceptance; academic achievement. This therapy is helpful in learning new skills besides having fun and relaxing. The outcomes indicated that regular activities of CBPT can be used as a complementary or alternative non-pharmacological treatment for ADHD. newline