Much has been said and written over recent years about Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity
Disorder. There is a certain amount of confusion as to what exactly the condition
constitutes and controversy continues to rage regarding treatment.
A significant number of children appear to be affected. Previously, parents and teachers
·were blamed for failing to discipline effectively. Often, the difficulties remained
undiagnosed and untreated. Thanks to the wisdom of so many experts who have
generously shared their knowledge and considerable expertise, there is an increased
awareness of ADHD. Although there is no cure, there are ways to manage the difficulties.
However, early diagnosis and intervention is critical. Since many different symptoms are
associated with the disorder, a multi-modal treatment plan has been found to lead to a
better outcome.
For the purpose of this study, a multi-modal programme was planned to address the
needs of a small group of children with ADHD and their parents. The intention was to
empower the parents, within a supportive group environment, by providing them with
knowledge about the disorder and guidelines for managing the difficult behaviour. In
addition, an attempt was made to change the negative behaviour patterns of the children
through the medium of story-telling. It was hoped that by reducing the levels of parental
stress, parents would be more competent to cope with their educational demands, so that
their children could be guided more positively towards adulthood.
The results of the programme were positive. Teachers and parents reported better
behaviour by the children. The parents' stress levels were reduced. The parents
expressed greater understanding about the disorder and a hopefulness that they could
better manage their children. They felt they had benefitted from the advice given by other
parents who were facing similar challenges. However, they felt that a short-term
programme was insufficient to address all their needs and they expressed a need for ongoing
support. In view of the chronicity of the disorder and the constantly changing needs
of the child on his journey towards adulthood, cognisance was taken of the fact that longterm
intervention is essential. / Psychology of Education / D.Ed. (Psychology of Education)
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:netd.ac.za/oai:union.ndltd.org:unisa/oai:uir.unisa.ac.za:10500/17891 |
| Date | 11 1900 |
| Creators | Clark, Mavis |
| Contributors | Roets, H. E. (Hester Elizabeth) |
| Source Sets | South African National ETD Portal |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Thesis |
| Format | 1 online resource (xiv, 268 leaves) : illustrations |
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