Developmental Insights: Critical Review of U.S. Research on Non-Pharmacological ADHD Interventions

Abstract

This study systematically reviewed the literature to examine non-pharmacological interventions for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder that significantly impacts children’s academic performance, social interactions, and emotional development. While pharmacological treatments remain the primary approach for managing ADHD symptoms, an increasing body of research highlights the potential benefits of alternative, non-pharmacological strategies. Through a comprehensive analysis of existing studies, this review synthesizes findings to provide a holistic understanding of the current landscape of non-pharmacological interventions. It identifies key trends, such as the growing emphasis on behavioral therapies, parent training programs, and school-based interventions, while also highlighting critical gaps in the research, including a lack of diversity in study populations and limited exploration of long-term outcomes. The findings suggest that these interventions hold promise as effective complements or alternatives to medication, particularly for addressing the unique needs of different developmental stages and population groups. However, the review emphasizes the need for larger, more rigorous studies to validate their efficacy and generalizability. By outlining these trends and gaps, this study offers valuable insights for researchers, clinicians, and policymakers, paving the way for future research and more inclusive, evidence-based treatment approaches for ADHD.

Keywords: ADHD; Non-pharmacological; behavioral therapies; children; adolescents; Parent training; School based programs, mindfulness, and Neurofeedback.

DOI: 10.7176/JMPB/75-01

Publication date: January 31^st 2025