Willingness to use ADHD treatments: a mixed methods study of perceptions by adolescents, parents, health professionals and teachers

The concept of treatment beliefs in children and adolescents with chronic health conditions: a scoping review

Children and adolescents with chronic health conditions are faced with ongoing challenges, making self-regulation crucial. As children grow up, they gradually develop differentiated beliefs about illness and treatment. While research indicates treatment beliefs as relevant factor on outcomes like adherence, the specific contents and dimensions of children's and adolescents' treatment beliefs remained unclear. This scoping review therefore aimed at the identification of treatment beliefs dimensions in children and adolescents with chronic health conditions, the underlying theoretical frameworks, and methodological operationalisation. Published literature was examined by applying systematic searches in electronic databases (Medline, PsycINFO, CINAHL) and comprehensive selection criteria, resulting in 49 included studies. The predominant treatment beliefs dimensions were necessity, concerns, perceived benefits and costs/barriers, and expectations. The latter can be differentiated into outcome, social, process, and structural expectations, and expectations of one's own role in the treatment process. In addition, dimensions that cover emotions and reasons for treatment were identified. The results are related to the methods and theoretical models applied, which were often adapted from adult research. However, additional and possibly more child-specific dimensions such as social expectations and emotions were found. This scoping review indicates several research gaps and discusses practical implications.

Development of a digital mental health intervention for youth with ADHD: exploring youth perspectives on wants, needs, and barriers

Background

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a mental health disorder affecting five to eight percent of children and youth worldwide. Inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity are core symptoms, which often leads to comorbid disorders and impairments. Increased prevalence of ADHD among youth requires development of accessible and scalable interventions. Digital interventions for ADHD show promising results for adults, yet insight into youths perspectives and needs from digital ADHD interventions is lacking. This study is set in a person-based approach and explore what youths want and need from a therapist-guided digital intervention for ADHD.

Methods

Exploratory individual interviews were conducted with youths aged 13-16 years diagnosed with ADHD (N = 16). Participants with an ADHD diagnosis were recruited primarily via social media. The interview guide was based on research, treatment guidelines, and clinical expertise. The study applied reflexive thematic analysis, within a Big Q framework. Codes and themes were generated in Nvivo.

Results

Four main themes and sub-themes were generated: (1) Tailoring the intervention to youths with ADHD (Push the right buttons; Stumbling blocks), (2) Managing ADHD (Planning and Focus; Regulation and Balance; Social interactions), (3) Me and my ADHD (Insight and Understanding; Accept and Normalization), and (4) Balance between support and independence.

Discussion

The findings suggest that youths with ADHD prefer stimulating and interactive treatment and are aversive to overwhelming, passive content. The intervention and therapist should encourage empowerment by supporting the youths autonomy in managing their ADHD. Future research is needed to investigate feasibility for person-based approaches to digital mental health treatments. Furthermore, parent perspectives on digital treatment for youths with ADHD should be investigated.

Effects of Compliance to a Training Intervention for High School Students with ADHD

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated the effects of treatment compliance with the Challenging Horizons Program (CHP) for high school aged adolescents with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

METHOD

Participants were 185 high school aged adolescents (65% non-Hispanic White; 79% male) with a diagnosis of ADHD who were randomly assigned to either CHP or community control. Outcomes included parent-rated academic functioning, parent- and self-rated social-emotional functioning, and GPA. The complier average causal effect (CACE) was estimated using propensity-weighted models for youth engaging in ≥ 30 CHP individual sessions (15-20 min) across the academic year.

RESULTS

Most (78%) CHP participants engaged in≥30 CHP sessions. CACE analyses using latent growth curve modeling revealed significant treatment effects among treatment compliers across ratings of academic and social outcomes relative to similar control participants. For most outcomes, CACE estimates were larger than those found in intent-to-treat analyses, especially at 6-months follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Compliance with 30 or more individual CHP sessions appeared to be an attainable threshold associated with incremental gains across several academic and social outcomes. Effects of compliance were amplified at 6-months follow-up, supporting the hypothesized theory of change of training interventions. Future work should focus on facilitators of treatment engagement and feasibility of the CHP as delivered by high school personnel.

Longitudinal Patterns of Community-Based Treatment Utilization Among Ethnically and Racially Diverse Adolescents with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Background: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) treatment utilization among adolescents is highly variable. This article describes pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatment utilization in a community sample of primarily Latinx and/or Black adolescents with ADHD (N = 218), followed longitudinally for 4 years, from early adolescence until approximately age 17 (M = 16.80, standard deviation = 1.65). Methods: Electronic surveys administered between 2012 and 2019 queried parent and youth reports of medication initiation, persistence, diversion, and misuse, as well as reasons for desistence. Nonpharmacological treatment utilization (including complementary and alternative treatments) was also measured. Results: Results indicated that: (1) the majority of the sample sought treatment for ADHD in their community, (2) rates of psychosocial treatment utilization were higher than medication utilization, (3) approximately half of the medicated sample discontinued community-administered ADHD medication during the follow-up period, most frequently citing tolerability issues and concerns that they were "tired of taking" medication, and (4) medication misuse consisted of youth diversion and parent utilization of teen medication, but both were reported at low rates. Race/ethnicity did not predict treatment utilization patterns, but lower family adversity and psychiatric comorbidity predicted persistence of medication use over time. Conclusions: ADHD treatment engagement efforts for Latinx and/or Black adolescents might link treatment to goals valued by the youth, address concerns related to medication tolerability, and promote secure monitoring of medication. Nonpharmacological treatments for ADHD may be more palatable to Latinx and Black youth with ADHD, and efforts to engage youth with ADHD in treatment should consider offering medication and psychosocial treatment options.

Engagement Barriers to Behavior Therapy for Adolescent ADHD

OBJECTIVE

To identify barriers to behavior therapy for adolescent ADHD (Supporting Teens' Autonomy Daily; STAND) and understand the relationship between barriers and treatment engagement.

METHOD

A mixed-method design with qualitative coding of 822 audio-recorded therapy sessions attended by 121 adolescents with ADHD (ages 11-16; 72.7% male, 77.7% Latinx, 7.4% African-American, 11.6% White, non-Latinx) and parents. Grounded theory methodology identified barriers articulated by parents and adolescents in session. Barriers were sorted by subtype (cognitive/attitudinal, behavioral, logistical) and subject (parent, teen, dyad). Frequency and variety of barriers were calculated by treatment phase (engagement, skills, planning). Generalized linear models and generalized estimating equations examined between-phase differences in frequency of each barrier and relationships between barriers frequency, subtype, subject, and phase on engagement (attendance and homework completion).

RESULTS

Coding revealed twenty-five engagement barriers (ten cognitive/attitudinal, eleven behavioral, four logistical). Common barriers were: low adolescent desire (72.5%), parent failure to monitor skill application (69.4%), adolescent forgetfulness (60.3%), and adolescent belief that no change is needed (56.2%). Barriers were most commonly cognitive/attitudinal, teen-related, and occurring in STAND's planning phase. Poorer engagement was associated with cognitive/attitudinal, engagement phase, and dyadic barriers. Higher engagement in treatment was predicted by more frequent behavioral, logistical, parent, and skills/planning phase barriers.

CONCLUSIONS

Baseline assessment of barriers may promote individualized engagement strategies for adolescent ADHD treatment. Cognitive/attitudinal barriers should be targeted at treatment outset using evidence-based engagement strategies (e.g., Motivational Interviewing). Behavioral and logistical barriers should be addressed when planning and reviewing application of skills.

Impact of a Publicly-Funded Pharmacare Program on Prescription Stimulant use Among Children and Youth: A Population-Based Observational Natural Experiment

OBJECTIVE

Stimulants are first-line pharmacotherapy for individuals with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. However, disparities in drug coverage may contribute to inequitable treatment access. In January 2018, the government of Ontario, Canada, implemented a publicly-funded program (OHIP+) providing universal access to medications at no cost to children and youth between the ages of 0 and 24. In April 2019, the program was amended to cover only children and youth without private insurance. We studied whether these policy changes were associated with changes in prescription stimulant dispensing to Ontario children and youth.

METHODS

We conducted a population-based observational natural experiment study of stimulant dispensing to children and youth in Ontario between January 2013 and March 2020. We used interventional autoregressive integrated moving average models to estimate the association between OHIP+ and its subsequent modification with stimulant dispensing trends.

RESULTS

The implementation of OHIP+ was associated with a significant immediate increase in the monthly rate of stimulant dispensing of 53.6 individuals per 100,000 population (95% confidence interval [CI], 36.8 to 70.5 per 100,000) and a 14.2% (95% CI, 12.8% to 15.6%) relative percent increase in stimulant dispensing rates between December 2017 and March 2019 (1198.6 vs. 1368.7 per 100,000 population). The April 2019 OHIP+ program amendment was associated with an increase in monthly stimulant dispensing trends of 10.2 individuals per 100,000 population (95% CI, 5.0 to 15.5), with rates increasing 7.5% (95% CI, 6.2% to 8.7%) between March 2019 and March 2020 (1368.7 vs. 1470.8 per 100,000 population). These associations were most pronounced among males, children and youth living in the highest income neighbourhoods and individuals aged 20 to 24.

CONCLUSION

A publicly-funded pharmacare program was associated with more children and youth being dispensed stimulants.

Adherence, frequency, and long-term follow-up of video game-based treatments in patients with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder in children and adolescents. Recent studies show that video games have great potential for the treatment and rehabilitation of ADHD patients. The aim of the present review is to systematically review the scientific literature on the relationship between video games and ADHD, focusing on adherence to treatment, frequency of the intervention, and the long-term follow-up of video games in children and adolescents with ADHD.

METHODS

The preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses guidelines were adopted. The review protocol was registered in PROSPERO database. We searched in three databases, PubMed, Medline, and Web of Science to identify studies examining the association between video game interventions in ADHD patients.

RESULTS

A total of 18 empirical studies met the established inclusion criteria. The results showed that video games-based interventions can be used to improve ADHD symptoms and display high adherence to treatment. In addition, in the studies reviewed, the most common intervention frequency is 30 min three to five times per week. However, there is little evidence from studies with video games showing long-term effects in patients with ADHD.

CONCLUSION

Video games are useful and effective interventions that can complement traditional treatments in patients with ADHD.

Prevalence, diagnosis and treatment of ADHD in Arab and Jewish children in Israel, where are the gaps?

BACKGROUND

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is the most common neurobehavioral disorder affecting children and causing significant impairment. It is not clear to what extent ADHD differs between population groups. This study aims to assess prevalence, diagnosis and treatment of ADHD among Arab and Jewish children of primary school age in Israel.

METHODS

Cross-sectional survey, including 517 parents of children ages 7-10 (225 Jewish and 292 Arab) and 60 homeroom teachers of the corresponding children. Both parents and homeroom teachers completed the ADHD Rating Scale-V-RV. ADHD was defined according to DSM-5 ADHD criteria by both parents and teachers, or clinical diagnosis. In addition, parents reported ADHD medication and adherence to medication.

RESULTS

Prevalence of ADHD was similar for both groups. Yet, seeking diagnosis was lower among Arab Muslim children (9.2%) compared to Jewish children (17.8%). Arab Muslim children received significantly less medication compared to Jewish children. Parental decision to seek diagnosis was associated with education (OR = 6.14, CI 1.74-21.71), not ethnicity. Ethnicity predicted parents' decisions to pharmacologically treat their children with ADHD (OR = 7.61, CI 1.14-50.86) and adherence to medication (OR = 10.19, CI 1.18-88.01).

CONCLUSION

Education is critical in the help-seeking process, affecting the rate of ADHD diagnosis. Pharmacological treatment and adherence are correlated with ethnicity. Parents with limited education and minorities should be targeted for interventions to increase awareness regarding ADHD and treatment.

Perspectives of French adolescents with ADHD and child and adolescent psychiatrists regarding methylphenidate use

Many studies have demonstrated the short-term efficacy and tolerability of methylphenidate treatment adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Qualitative literature on this matter focused on school outcomes, long-term side effects, family conflicts, personality changes and stigmatization. Yet, no qualitative study has crossed the perspectives of child and adolescent psychiatrists (CAPs) prescribing methylphenidate and adolescents with ADHD. This French qualitative study followed the five stages IPSE-Inductive Process to analyze the Structure of lived Experience-approach. Fifteen adolescents with ADHD and 11 CAPs were interviewed. Data collection by purposive sampling continued until data saturation was reached. Data analysis, based on a descriptive and structuring procedure to determine the structure of lived experience characterized by the central axes of experience, produced two axes: (1) The process of methylphenidate prescription, highlighting how this prescription was motivated from the exterior, experienced as passive by the adolescents and required commitment from the CAPs; and (2) the perceived effects of methylphenidate treatment, in three domains: at school, in relationships and in the sense of self. Findings raised both the issues of the epistemic position and social representation of the adolescents about ADHD and methylphenidate within this specific French context, and the self-awareness and perception of the adolescents with ADHD. We conclude that these two issues need to be regularly addressed by the CAPs prescribing methylphenidate to avoid epistemic injustice and prevent the harmful effects of stigmatization.

Perspectives Regarding Medications for Opioid Use Disorder Among Individuals with Mental Illness

Most people with co-occurring opioid use disorder (OUD) and mental illness do not receive effective medications for treating OUD. To investigate perspectives of adults in a publicly-funded mental health system regarding medications for OUD (MOUD), we conducted semi-structured telephone interviews with 13 adults with OUD (current or previous diagnosis) receiving mental health treatment. Themes that emerged included: perceiving or using MOUDs as a substitute for opioids or a temporary solution to prevent withdrawal symptoms; negative perceptions about methadone/methadone clinics; and viewing MOUD use as "cheating". Readiness to quit was important for patients to consider MOUDs. All participants were receptive to discussing MOUDs with their mental health providers and welcomed the convenience of receiving care for their mental health and OUD at the same location. In conclusion, clients at publicly-funded mental health clinics support MOUD treatment, signaling a need to expand access and build awareness of MOUDs in these settings.

Can We Expand the Pool of Youth Who Receive Telehealth Assessments for ADHD? Covariates of Service Utilization

BACKGROUND

During the COVID-19 pandemic, telehealth became widely utilized for healthcare, including psychological evaluations. However, whether telehealth has reduced or exacerbated healthcare disparities for children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) remains unclear.

METHODS

Data (race, ethnicity, age, insurance type, ADHD presentation, comorbidities, and distance to clinic) for youth with ADHD (Mage = 10.97, SDage = 3.42; 63.71% male; 51.62% White) were extracted from the medical record at an urban academic medical center. Three naturally occurring groups were compared: those evaluated in person prior to COVID-19 (n =780), in person during COVID-19 (n = 839), and via telehealth during COVID-19 (n = 638).

RESULTS

Children seen via telehealth were significantly more likely to be older, White, have fewer comorbid conditions, and live farther from the clinic than those seen in person.

CONCLUSIONS

The current study suggests that telehealth has not eliminated barriers to care for disadvantaged populations. Providers and institutions must take action to encourage telehealth use among these groups.

Do Parents of Children with ADHD Know the Disease? Results from a Cross-Sectional Survey in Zhejiang, China

Parents' knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are crucial in the selection of the treatment strategy and how to care for children with ADHD. However, little is known about parents' conception in mainland China. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to assess this information with 25 true/false questions regarding ADHD, and other questions investigating the methods of acquiring ADHD-related information, treatment preference, and concerns about ADHD treatment strategy. We found that the average score of all the participants was 17.42 ± 2.69 (total of 25 points) for the questionnaire on knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about ADHD. This indicated that the parents had insufficient knowledge of this disease profile. They always accessed specialized information through mobile internet. For the treatment options, the investigated parents chose psychotherapy treatment rather than medications, in that they worried about the side effects of medication and expected to find alternative treatment strategies. The present investigation demonstrated that most parents lack knowledge about ADHD in treatment decision making in China. Medical professionals should provide parents with evidence-based ADHD-related information to help them understand this disease.

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) in children with ADHD: A randomized, sham-controlled pilot study

BACKGROUND

ADHD is a common neurodevelopmental disorder with a pediatric prevalence of 5.2%.While medication treatment for ADHD is effective, it does not address all symptoms and a small but notable subgroup does not respond to medications. Adverse effects limit its use and some parents and participants resist use of medication. Thus, limitations of medication treatment for ADHD motivate searching for other therapeutic options. Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) has been suggested as a treatment for children with ADHD, with mixed results to date. Protocol variables employed, including combined use of cognitive training (CT) and scheduling of sessions, may explain diverse findings to date. The aim of this study was to examine safety, feasibility and efficacy of tDCS combined with CT provided three-times-per week for one-month to treat children with ADHD.

METHODS

In a double blind, randomized, sham-controlled pilot study, 25 children with ADHD were randomized to receive 12 sessions of either anodal tDCS or sham-tDCS for 20 min combined with CT three-times-per-week for four weeks. The tDCS anode was over left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) and cathode over vertex. Assessments were obtained prior to, after 6 sessions, 12 sessions and one-month after intervention.

RESULTS

No significant post-intervention differences were found between those receiving tDCS or sham-tDCS. Both groups demonstrated significant improvement on questionnaire measures of ADHD and executive function with mixed results seen on computerized performance measures. Overall, adverse effects were mild with no significant difference between groups. However, three children, all from the tDCS group, experienced headaches with two requiring temporary cessation and one requiring removal from the study.

CONCLUSIONS

Anodal tDCS to the DLPFC using the above protocol in children with ADHD did not demonstrate additional treatment benefits beyond that of CT.

Parent preferences for adolescent depression treatment: The role of past treatment experience and biological etiological beliefs

BACKGROUND

Parents play a crucial role in facilitating depression treatment for adolescents, yet parental preferences for adolescent treatments are ill-understood. Past treatment experience and belief in a biological model of depression may impact preferences, and warrant investigation.

METHODS

Parents (N = 143) of teens (12-18 years) completed a survey assessing preference for adolescent depression treatments, treatment knowledge, and beliefs about the biological etiology of depression. Details about parents' and adolescents' past mental health concerns and treatment were obtained. Parents indicated degree of preference from 0 (Not at all preferable) - 10 (Highly preferable) for six treatment options (counselling, antidepressant medication, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, electroconvulsive therapy, exercise, no treatment) for three adolescents vignettes depicting varying depression severity (Mild/Moderate, Severe, and Treatment-Resistant).

RESULTS

Mean preference ratings across all vignette severities were high for counselling (range: 8.57-9.38) and exercise (range: 9.04-9.25). Multiple regression revealed parental past experience of psychopharmacological treatment was significantly associated with current preference for adolescent antidepressant medication, with increased helpfulness and milder/fewer adverse events associated with stronger preference. Greater perceived helpfulness of past teen psychopharmacological treatment was significantly associated with greater current parental preference for adolescent antidepressant medication. Strength of biological beliefs and counselling preference were significantly positively associated.

LIMITATIONS

Sample was highly educated, predominately female, and majority treatment-utilizing limiting the generalizability of findings.

CONCLUSIONS

Parents' own past medication experiences and degree of biological etiological beliefs appear to be associated with current teen depression treatment preferences. Counselling and exercise were highly preferred across depression severity.

Intention to obtain a COVID-19 vaccine among Brazilian immigrant women in the U.S

Background

COVID-19 has disproportionately impacted low-income immigrant communities. There is concern that the current uptake of COVID-19 vaccines is suboptimal and that this may be contributing to COVID-19 inequities. However, little is known about the acceptability of COVID-19 vaccines among immigrants in the U.S. Our goal was to gauge COVID-19 vaccine intentions among Brazilian immigrant women living in the U.S.

Methods

We conducted an online survey between July and August 2020 offered in Portuguese and English languages among a convenience sample of Brazilian immigrant women ages 18 years and older. Women were recruited through online advertisements by community-based organizations and social media groups to complete a survey that assessed intention to get a COVID-19 vaccine, attitudes toward vaccines, and perceptions about the pandemic.

Results

Of the total sample (N = 353), most (70.8%) indicated they intended to get a COVID-19 vaccine. In bivariate analyses, vaccine intentions were significantly associated with perceptions about the severity of the pandemic, trusted sources of health information, and the number of years lived in the U.S. Multinomial logistic regression models revealed that those who did not intend to be vaccinated had lived a longer time in the U.S. (OR: -0.12 95% CI: -0.19, -0.05), perceived the pandemic to be a minor issue (OR: 1.52, 95% CI: 0.62, 2.42), and trusted information from social networks (OR: -1.94, 95% CI: -3.25, -0.63) or private news sources (OR: -1.71, 95% CI: -2.78, -0.63).

Conclusions

While most women reported they would get a COVID-19 vaccine, efforts to reach those who may be hesitant should target those who have lived in the U.S. for longer periods of time and do not perceive the pandemic to be a major crisis. Healthcare providers may be particularly suited to deliver this information given high levels of trust.

A systematic review of interventions to enhance adherence and persistence with ADHD pharmacotherapy

Although high rates of poor adherence/persistence have been documented in ADHD, there is limited research targeting the problem. This systematic review evaluated interventions to address poor adherence/persistence to ADHD pharmacotherapy, with the aim of guiding the development of future interventions. An extensive search was conducted from January 1980 until January 2021. Thirteen studies were identified involving interventions based on psychoeducation, behavioural therapy, combined psychoeducation/behavioural therapy, technology-based interventions, written informed consent and a nursing support line. All 13 studies (including five RCTs) reported improvement in adherence/persistence and five studies (including four RCTs) also reported improvement in ADHD symptomatology. Almost all studies involved interventions utilising some form of education. Three RCTs of psychoeducation alone were included, with two of the three studies reporting adherence benefits at three and 12 months respectively. The third RCT was terminated early due to poor recruitment. A behavioural intervention RCT reported improved adherence six months post intervention (but not at 12 months), although a substantial drop-out rate was observed. A final included RCT used a Smartphone Application and reported a short term increase in adherence. The authors of the studies in this review make salient attempts at improving adherence and provide insight for future intervention development. We believe future interventions should involve combinations of strategies, have a theoretical framework and target the most common reasons for non-adherence. Interventions should also be integratable into routine care and include patient input to maximise sustainability.

Predictors of Stimulant Medication Continuity in Children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to examine the simultaneous impact of patient-related and parent-related factors, medication-related factors, and health care system-related factors on attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medication continuity.

METHOD

Stimulant-naïve children (N = 144, M age = 8 yrs, 71% male) with ADHD completed a methylphenidate (MPH) trial and were followed for 1 year after trial completion and return to community care. Multivariable analysis investigated predictors of (1) having at least 1 filled ADHD prescription after return to community care versus none and (2) having more days covered with medicine after return to community care. Predictors included race; age; sex; income; baseline ADHD symptom severity; MPH trial experience; child and parent mental health conditions; and parent beliefs about ADHD, ADHD medications, and therapeutic alliance.

RESULTS

One hundred twenty-one children (84%) had at least 1 filled ADHD medication prescription (mean = 178 d covered by medication) in the year after return to community care. Multivariable models found that a weaker perceived clinician-family working alliance predicted not filling any ADHD prescriptions. Among those who filled ≥1 prescription, factors linked to fewer days of ADHD medication coverage included child sociodemographic factors (non-White race, older age, being female, and lower income), lower parent beliefs that the child's ADHD affects their lives, and higher parent beliefs that medication is harmful, while child oppositional defiant disorder and parental ADHD predicted having more days of medication coverage.

CONCLUSION

Child demographic factors, parent beliefs, and medication-related factors are associated with continuation of ADHD medication. These findings may facilitate the development of effective strategies to improve ADHD medication continuity for children from diverse groups.

Eliciting preferences for continuing medication among adult patients and parents of children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder

BACKGROUND

Adherence to medication for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is less than optimal. Previous studies have primarily focused on qualitative assessment of factors that influence medication adherence.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to quantify the factors that influence patient and parent preferences for continuing ADHD medication.

METHOD

A discrete-choice experiment was conducted to investigate preferences. Adults, and parents of children, with ADHD were presented with eight hypothetical choice tasks of three options (Medication A, Medication B, No Medication) described by six attributes related to medication outcomes. Preferences were estimated using a mixed multinomial logit model.

RESULTS

Overall, respondents' preferences (n = 216) for continuing medication were negative (mean [β] = -1.426, p < .001); however, a significant heterogeneity in preferences was observed amongst respondents (standard deviation = 0.805, p < .001). Improvements in education, aggressive behaviour, social behaviour and family functioning, and side effects and stigma, influenced respondents' decision to continue taking medication. The respondents were willing to continue medication if they experienced positive effects, but side effects (even moderate) were the strongest concern for not continuing medication. While side effects were the most important factor for both adult patients and parents of children with ADHD, improvement in education was relatively more important for adults and improvement in aggressive behaviour, social behaviour and family functioning was relatively more important for parents of children with ADHD. Parents were more likely to not continue a medication with severe side effects even at the highest level of improvement in education.

CONCLUSIONS

Side effects are the most important factor that influenced preferences for continuing medication for both adults with ADHD, as well as parents of children with ADHD. While overall the respondents preferred not to take/give medication, discrete-choice experiment showed that the relative importance of factors that influenced continuation of medications was different for the two groups.

PATIENT AND PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT

Adults, and parents of children, with ADHD participated in this study by completing the online questionnaire. The questionnaire was based on findings of research in the literature, as well as earlier focus groups conducted with adults, and parents of children, with ADHD. The face validity of the questionnaire was determined by asking parents of children, and adults, with ADHD (n = 3) to complete the survey and participate in a short discussion on their understanding of the questions and their recommendations on improving the clarity of the survey.

Predictors of Treatment Engagement and Outcome Among Adolescents With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: An Integrative Data Analysis

OBJECTIVE

To identify patient- and treatment-level factors that predict intervention engagement and outcome for adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), guiding efforts to enhance care.

METHOD

Integrative data analysis was used to pool data from 4 randomized controlled trials of adolescent ADHD treatment with participants (N = 854) receiving various evidence-based behavioral therapy packages in 5 treatment arms (standard [STANDARD], comprehensive [COMP], engagement-focused [ENGAGE]), community-based usual care (UC), or no treatment (NOTX). Participants also displayed varying medication use patterns (negligible, inconsistent, consistent) during the trial. Regression and latent growth curve analyses examined treatment- and patient-level predictors of engagement and outcome.

RESULTS

Compared with COMP, ENGAGE was associated with higher parent engagement in behavioral therapy (d = 1.35-1.73) when delivered in university, but not community, clinics. Under some conditions, ENGAGE also predicted youth engagement in behavioral therapy (d = 1.21) and lower likelihood of negligible medication use (odds ratio = 0.49 compared with NOTX). UC was associated with poorer parent engagement compared with COMP (d = -0.59) and negligible medication use (odds ratio = 2.29) compared with NOTX. Compared with COMP, ENGAGE (in university settings) was consistently associated with larger ADHD symptom improvements (d = 0.41-0.83) at 6-month follow-up and sometimes associated with larger grade point average (d = 0.68) and parent-teen conflict (d = 0.41) improvements. Consistent medication use during behavioral therapy was associated with larger improvements in ADHD symptoms (d = 0.28) and parent-teen conflict (d = 0.25-0.36). An ADHD+internalizing clinical profile predicted larger improvements in grade point average (d = 0.45). Family adversity predicted poorer parent and youth engagement (rate ratio = 0.90-0.95), negligible medication use (odds ratio = 1.22), and smaller improvements in grade point average (d = -0.23). African American race predicted smaller improvements in parent-teen conflict (d = -0.49).

CONCLUSION

Engagement-focused behavioral therapy and consistent medication use most frequently predicted stronger clinical engagement and outcomes for adolescents with ADHD. Youths who are African American or who experience family adversity may demonstrate treatment-related disparities for certain outcomes; youths with ADHD+internalizing symptoms may demonstrate excellent academic outcomes following behavioral therapy.

DATA SHARING

The full ADHD TIDAL dataset is publicly available through the National Data Archive (https://nda.nih.gov), including a data dictionary. The study protocol is also publicly available: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-020-02734-6.

Stakeholder-Generated Implementation Strategies to Promote Evidence-Based ADHD Treatment in Community Mental Health

Community implementation of evidence-based practices (EBPs) for Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is greatly lacking. A recent randomized community-based trial of an EBP for ADHD (Supporting Teens' Autonomy Daily; STAND) demonstrated suboptimal implementation and effectiveness outcomes. In the present study, we conducted an Innovation Tournament (IT) with agency staff stakeholders (N = 26) to identify barriers to successful implementation of STAND and implementation strategies for a revised service delivery model. We conducted member-checking of agency staff-generated ideas with parents (N = 226) and subsequent querying of additional parent (N = 226) and youth-generated (N = 205) strategies to improve care. Go-Zone plots were utilized to identify strategies with the highest feasibility and importance. Practical barriers (i.e., transportation, scheduling difficulties) and parent/youth engagement were the most commonly cited obstacles to successful implementation of STAND in community contexts. Eighteen "winning" implementation strategies were identified that survived member checking. These were classified as train and educate stakeholders (n = 5; e.g., train agency supervisors to deliver supervision, digitize treatment materials and trainings), engage consumers (n = 9; e.g., begin treatment with rapport building sessions, increase psychoeducation), provide interactive assistance (n = 2; e.g., add group supervision, increase roleplay in supervision), and use of evaluative/iterative strategies (n = 2; e.g., perform fidelity checks, supervisor review of session recordings). Parents and youth desired longer duration of treatment and increased focus on maintenance. Strategies will be developed and tested as part of a pilot effectiveness trial designed to refine STAND's service delivery model.Trial Registration NCT02694939 www.clinicaltrials.gov.

Review of barriers and interventions to promote treatment engagement for pediatric attention deficit hyperactivity disorder care

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common and impairing behavioral health disorder, impacting over 5% of children worldwide. There are multiple evidence-based pharmacological and psychosocial treatments for ADHD, and greater service utilization is associated with improved acute and long-term outcomes. However, long-term outcomes are suboptimal as multimodal treatments are often not accessed and most care ends prematurely. This narrative review discusses barriers to engagement for children and adolescents with ADHD and their families as well as interventions to overcome these barriers. Families face a variety of structural and attitudinal barriers, ranging from cost and access to stigma and low self-efficacy to successfully implement change. There are multiple interventions that may enhance engagement with ADHD care including psychoeducation, integration of behavioral services in general medical settings, telehealth as well as specific adaptations to existing ADHD treatments, such as the use of motivational interviewing or shared decision making. Integration of behavioral health into general medical settings and telehealth have been found in controlled studies to increase access by reducing both structural and attitudinal barriers. Adding motivational interviewing, shared decision making and other engagement interventions to evidence-based ADHD treatments has been found to reduce attitudinal barriers that translates into improved participation and satisfaction while enhancing outcomes. However, little is known about how to promote extended engagement with ADHD services even though a chronic care model for ADHD is recommended.

Medication Adherence Aligns with Age and a Behavioral Checklist but Not Symptoms or Quality of Life for Patients with Eosinophilic Esophagitis

OBJECTIVE

To measure adherence rates to swallowed topical steroids in children with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), describe factors related to adherence, and determine the association between adherence, symptoms, perceived disease severity, and quality of life in children with EoE.

STUDY DESIGN

Subjects in this cross-sectional study of 117 children between 5 and 18 years old with EoE completed the Pediatric Eosinophilic Esophagitis Symptoms Score V2.0 (PEESS), Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Eosinophilic Esophagitis Module (PedsQL EoE), a Medication-Taking Checklist (MTC), and a demographics questionnaire. Adherence rate was calculated based on reported number of missed doses/prescribed doses in the last week. Parent-reported measures were used for children aged 5-12 years and self-report was used for children aged 13-18 years.

RESULTS

Adolescents had lower adherence rates than younger children (76.2 ± 24.5% vs 88.6 ± 16.7%, P = .002). Adherence rates were not associated with disease history, PEESS, or PedsQL EoE scores but instead correlated with MTC scores (Pearson r of 0.65, P < .001 for child-report and Pearson r of 0.74, P < .001 for parent-report). Symptomatology was associated with worse quality of life (PEESS Frequency: r = -0.7, P < .001; PEESS Severity: r = -0.71, P < .001 for children 5-12 years old; PEESS Frequency: r = -0.61, P < .001; PEESS Severity: r = -.5, P < .001 for adolescents).

CONCLUSIONS

Unrelated to their clinical history, demographic factors, symptoms, and quality of life, adolescents with EoE have lower medication adherence rates. The MTC may serve as a clinical tool to discuss adherence and provide targeted educational counseling regarding adherence interventions.

Social class, teachers, and medicalisation lag: a qualitative investigation of teachers' discussions of ADHD with parents and the effect of neighbourhood-level social class

While medical sociologists have explored how teachers aid the medicalisation process of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), there is a paucity of work investigating the role of neighbourhood-level social class. This paper has two main aims. First, to explore how teachers discuss ADHD with parents, and second, to understand how these discussions differ based upon neighbourhood-level social class. To achieve these aims, I utilise grounded theory and interviews with thirty-four elementary school teachers. Emergent themes describe the following process: (a) reifying biological causation of ADHD, (b) evidence gathering, and (c) furtive diagnosis. Findings suggest teachers in upper-class areas skipped steps in the process or easily managed each step while discussing ADHD with parents. Teachers in lower-class areas were met with barriers that affected the likelihood of children receiving a furtive diagnosis from teachers, thus reducing the likelihood of meeting with a medical professional and receiving medical intervention. Findings explain disparities in medication use for ADHD by neighbourhood-level social class and help to explain the social reproduction of social class. By building on the literature regarding cultural capital and mental health literacy, I conceptualise 'medicalisation lag' as integral to the medicalisation process and to the social reproduction of social class.

Editorial: Trials and Tribulations of Developing Adolescent Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Interventions: Digging Deep to Stay Motivated

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has great public health relevance due to its high prevalence; adverse academic, social, economic, and health impacts on affected individuals and their families; and well established psychosocial and pharmacological treatment options.¹ Typically presenting with childhood onset, ADHD remains an impairing disorder through adolescence to adulthood for a majority of those affected. It is well established that adolescents with any chronic health condition are difficult to engage in protracted illness management, with an estimated 50%-80% struggling with nonadherence, prompting significant efforts to identify adherence promotion interventions.² Transition-age youth with ADHD are no exception, especially as it pertains to medication use.³ Indeed, ADHD intervention development for transition ages represents a high public health priority, as signaled through grant opportunities offered by the NIMH for pilot projects to refine and test interventions to sustain ADHD treatment effects across developmental transitions (see https://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/rfa-files/RFA-MH-20-100.html).

Factors associated with the intention to obtain a COVID-19 vaccine among a racially/ethnically diverse sample of women in the USA

Widespread uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine is critical to halt the pandemic. At present, little is known about factors that will affect vaccine uptake, especially among diverse racial/ethnic communities that have experienced the highest burden of COVID. We administered an online survey to a Qualtrics respondent panel of women ages 27-45 years (N = 396) to assess vaccine intentions and attitudes, and trusted vaccine information sources. 56.8% intended to be vaccinated and 25.5% were unsure. In bivariate analyses, a greater percentage of non-Latina White (NLW) and Chinese women reported that they would be vaccinated, compared with Latina and non-Latina Black (NLB) women (p < 0.001). Those who were uninsured, unemployed and those with lower incomes were less likely to say that they would be vaccinated. In analyses stratified by race/ethnicity, NLB women remained significantly less likely to report that they would be vaccinated compared with NLW women (adjusted odds ratio: 0.47; 95% confidence interval: 0.23, 0.94), controlling for age, marital status, income, education, employment, and insurance status. When analyses were additionally controlled for beliefs in vaccine safety and efficacy, racial/ethnic differences were no longer significant (adjusted odds ratio: 0.64; 95% confidence interval: 0.31, 1.34). Given that NLB women were less likely to report the intention to be vaccinated, targeted efforts will be needed to promote vaccine uptake. It will be critical to emphasize that the vaccine is safe and effective; this message may be best delivered by trusted community members.

Optimising medication management in children and young people with ADHD using a computerised test (QbTest): a feasibility randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Medication for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) should be closely monitored to ensure optimisation. There is growing interest in using computerised assessments of ADHD symptoms to support medication monitoring. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility and acceptability of a randomised controlled trial (RCT) to evaluate the efficacy of one such computerised assessment, the Quantified Behavior (Qb) Test, as part of medication management for ADHD.

METHODS

This feasibility multi-site RCT conducted in child and adolescent mental health and community paediatric settings recruited participants aged 6-15 years diagnosed with ADHD starting stimulant medication. Participants were randomised into one of two arms: experimental (QbTest protocol) where participants completed a QbTest at baseline and two follow-up QbTests on medication (2-4 weeks and 8-10 weeks later) and control where participants received treatment as usual, including at least two follow-up consultations. Measures of parent, teacher, and clinician-rated symptoms and global functioning were completed at each time point. Clinicians recorded treatment decision-making and health economic measures were obtained. Data were analysed using multi-level modelling and participants (children and parents) and clinicians were interviewed about their experiences, resulting data were thematically analysed.

RESULTS

Forty-four children and young people were randomised. Completion of study outcome measures by care-givers and teachers ranged from 52 to 78% at baseline to 47-65% at follow-up. Participants reported the questionnaires to be useful to complete. SNAP-IV inattention scores showed greater reduction in the intervention than the control group (- 5.85, 95% CI - 10.33, - 1.36,). Engagement with the intervention ranged from 100% at baseline, to 78% follow-up 1 and 57% follow-up 2. However, only 37% of QbTests were conducted in the correct time period. Interview data highlighted that the objectivity of the QbTest was appreciated by clinicians and parents. Clinicians commented that the additional time and resources required meant that it is not feasible to use QbTest for all cases.

CONCLUSION

The trial design and protocol appear to be feasible and acceptable but could be improved by modifying QbTest time periods and the method of data collection. With these changes, the protocol may be appropriate for a full trial. Adding QbTest may improve symptom outcome as measured by SNAP-IV.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03368573 , prospectively registered, 11th December 2017, and ISRCTN, ISRCTN69461593 , retrospectively registered, 10th April 2018.

Why do children and adolescents (not) seek and access professional help for their mental health problems? A systematic review of quantitative and qualitative studies

Mental health disorders in children and adolescents are highly prevalent yet undertreated. A detailed understanding of the reasons for not seeking or accessing help as perceived by young people is crucial to address this gap. We conducted a systematic review (PROSPERO 42018088591) of quantitative and qualitative studies reporting barriers and facilitators to children and adolescents seeking and accessing professional help for mental health problems. We identified 53 eligible studies; 22 provided quantitative data, 30 provided qualitative data, and one provided both. Four main barrier/facilitator themes were identified. Almost all studies (96%) reported barriers related to young people's individual factors, such as limited mental health knowledge and broader perceptions of help-seeking. The second most commonly (92%) reported theme related to social factors, for example, perceived social stigma and embarrassment. The third theme captured young people's perceptions of the therapeutic relationship with professionals (68%) including perceived confidentiality and the ability to trust an unknown person. The fourth theme related to systemic and structural barriers and facilitators (58%), such as financial costs associated with mental health services, logistical barriers, and the availability of professional help. The findings highlight the complex array of internal and external factors that determine whether young people seek and access help for mental health difficulties. In addition to making effective support more available, targeted evidence-based interventions are required to reduce perceived public stigma and improve young people's knowledge of mental health problems and available support, including what to expect from professionals and services.

Factors Associated with Parental Treatment Attitudes and Information-Seeking Behaviors for Childhood ADHD

Objective: Despite the association between childhood ADHD and long-term negative outcomes, there is a significant delay to treatment and a low rate of lifetime treatment contact for individuals with ADHD. Method: The current study examined (a) variables associated with parental treatment-seeking attitudes and information-seeking behaviors and (b) the relationship between these attitudes and behaviors in 87 non-treatment-seeking parents whose children had elevated ADHD symptoms. Results: Regressions indicated that attitudes toward ADHD treatment were associated with ADHD knowledge and misconceptions (ps < .01), susceptibility to ADHD stigma (p < .001), and satisfaction with past providers (ps < .01). Experience with past providers was significantly associated with information-seeking behavior (ps < .01). Conclusion: Parental knowledge of ADHD, low levels of stigma, and positive experiences with past providers were the strongest predictors of positive attitudes about ADHD treatment. Experience with past providers was the only factor related to treatment-seeking behavior. These results offer avenues to decreasing barriers to treatment in pediatric ADHD.

Parent and Teacher Training Increases Medication Adherence for Primary School Children With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Objective: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurobiological disorder for which effective and safe medication is recommended as first-line treatment. However, many parents and teachers do not believe that ADHD is a disorder or do not accept medication treatment in China. Treatment is often short term or intermittent. Our study aimed to investigate the clinical effect of employing a 4-week, session-based training for both parents and teachers in improving medication adherence for primary school children with ADHD. Methods: From January 2018 to December 2018, a total of 5,118 primary school children were screened. Among 211 children diagnosed with ADHD, 116 were assigned to the intervention group and 95 to the control group. This study provided systematic training for parents and teachers in the intervention group. The training consisted of education about the disorder and ADHD behavioral intervention for both parents and teachers as well as classroom management techniques for just the teachers. A cluster randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted to investigate the effect of this training at 6 months follow-up. The study determined medication adherence using a questionnaire and scoring with a rating scale at baseline and at the 6 month follow-up endpoint. The questionnaire was self-report. Results: The study population had a relatively low rate of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (4.1%) compared to the generally accepted prevalence. After the training, more parents and teachers believed that ADHD is a neurobiological disorder and that medication is the first line treatment. At 6 months follow-up, the Medication Adherence Report Scale (MARS) score for the intervention group was 22.8 ± 0.75 and 16.5 ± 1.63 for the control group (t = 5.217, P < 0.01). Based on parents' reports and medical records, 82 children (70.69%) were continuously taking medication for 6 months in the intervention group, while only 35 children (36.84%) were doing so in the control group. In the intervention group, the mean SNAP-IV score was 1.98 ± 0.42 at baseline but 0.99 ± 0.31 at 6-month follow-up. In the control group, the mean SNAP-IV score was 1.89 ± 0.47 at baseline but 1.37 ± 0.42 at 6-months follow-up (F = 2.67, P = 0.009). Factors influencing medication adherence for children with ADHD were parent's beliefs, teacher's beliefs, socioeconomic status, adverse effect, insurance coverage, gender, and trust of the medical system. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that comprehensive training programs improve the understanding of ADHD and medication adherence for both children's parents and teachers, providing a promising approach for improving clinical efficacy for children with ADHD.

ADHD in Adolescents: Commentary on the Special Issue of Ripple Effects in Self-Perceptions and Social Relationships

Adolescence is a developmental period that affords both risk as well as enormous opportunity. Ripple effects can extend far and wide and speak to the nuance and complexity in understanding and treating ADHD during the adolescent period. The studies in this special issue provide novel and important insights into the lives of adolescents with ADHD, and they collectively point to important areas for both research and clinical attention. Further, each of the studies underscore the importance of soliciting the perspective of adolescents with ADHD. In this commentary, I consider the value of self-report when working with adolescents with ADHD, the possibility of a self-perception bias in youth with ADHD, challenges in assessing social functioning in adolescence, and implications for school-based assessments and interventions. For treatment specifically, I raise the possibility of a modular intervention approach for adolescents with ADHD and shared decision making that solicits and incorporates the adolescent perspective. The voices of adolescents with ADHD may be crucial for understanding how to lower risk, promote resilience, reduce stigma, and improve our assessments and interventions.

Review of Clinical Outcome Assessments in Pediatric Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

PURPOSE

Various clinical outcome assessments (COAs) are used in clinical research to assess and monitor treatment efficacy in pediatric attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) trials. It is unclear whether the concepts assessed are those that are important to patients and their caregivers. The concepts measured by commonly used COAs in this population have not been explicitly compared.

METHODS

We conducted reviews of the qualitative literature to extract information on pediatric ADHD-related concepts reported by pediatric patients, parents, and teachers. Using these concepts, we developed a conceptual framework of pediatric ADHD using both the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) criteria and the additional symptoms and behavioral impacts identified in the literature. We searched for COAs that have been used in pediatric ADHD research and mapped their items based on their conceptual underpinning.

RESULTS

Of the 27 COAs found in the empirical literature, 4 COAs assessed only DSM symptoms. The most comprehensive coverage of our conceptual framework was seen in the Swanson, Nolan, and Pelham Rating Scale-DSM-IV (SNAP-IV). Eighteen COAs were used in at least 1 clinical trial: ADHD-Rating Scale-IV (ADHD-RS-IV) was used most often (n=77), followed by SNAP-IV (n=50), Swanson, Kotkin, Agler, M-Flynn, and Pelham Scale (SKAMP; n=31), Weiss Functional Impairment Rating Scale (WFIRS; n=24), and Vanderbilt ADHD Diagnostic Rating Scale (VADRS; n=15).

CONCLUSION

We identified symptoms and behavioral impacts from qualitative studies in pediatric ADHD that are not included in DSM-based criteria. Most COAs used in pediatric ADHD clinical trials measure only those symptoms listed in the DSM. While these COAs can measure symptom severity, they may not assess the full range of symptoms and impacts important to patients and their caregivers. Future research is needed to measure all concepts important to patients and caregivers within ADHD clinical trials.

Attitudes about medications for alcohol use disorder among individuals with serious mental illness: A health belief model analysis

BACKGROUND

Medications for alcohol use disorder (MAUD) are underutilized in mental health settings. Increasing use of MAUD requires increasing both the availability of these medications and the demand by individuals who could benefit. Few studies have explored the views of individuals with severe mental illness and alcohol use disorder about MAUD. We sought to examine, among individuals treated in publicly funded community mental health clinics, perceived need for and attitudes toward MAUD.

METHODS

We conducted 8 focus groups with 87 participants treated in public mental health clinics in Los Angeles County. We aimed to include individuals with a current or past AUD diagnosis and individuals helping others (e.g., a family member) who drink. We examined responses using domains associated with the Health Belief Model to identify factors that shape acceptance of MAUD.

RESULTS

Participants were 53% female; most were minorities. Average age was 47 years (SD = 11). Twenty-four reported never drinking, 13 of whom had a current or past diagnosis of AUD. Twenty-two reported drinking 4 or more times per week. Three-quarters had not heard of naltrexone. Participants understood that alcohol use has severe adverse consequences and perceived themselves to be highly susceptible to these consequences. Regarding attitudes toward MAUD, participants described an internal locus of control (e.g., their own desires, actions, and effort) as central to addressing problem drinking; this shaped their views that MAUD would have only modest benefits and potentially high burden. Those individuals who had tried MAUD expressed the most optimism about its effectiveness.

CONCLUSIONS

Participants worried MAUD would impede the development of self-control over drinking by fostering dependence on medication and undermining self-discipline. Client education and counseling that emphasizes MAUD as a tool to build clients' self-control may increase demand for these medications in mental health settings.

Research Brief: The Teen ADHD Workshop to Improve Adolescent ADHD Treatment Engagement

Objective: Adolescents with ADHD are at risk of functional problems that may be mitigated by consistent ADHD treatment. This study pilots a brief intervention for adolescents with ADHD and their parents to increase treatment knowledge and family motivation to seek treatment. Method: The 3-hr curriculum was developed by a multidisciplinary team and included psychoeducation, goal setting, and motivational interviewing. Fifteen adolescents and 20 caregivers participated in the workshop, completed pre- and post-test assessments, and reported on acceptability. Results: Acceptability and satisfaction with the intervention were high. Perceived knowledge of ADHD increased post intervention; stigma was unchanged. Parents reported more acceptability of stimulant medications and less willingness to use special diets or cognitive games. Family feedback informed modifications to the curriculum. Conclusion: The Teen ADHD Workshop is a feasible and acceptable intervention to increase knowledge of ADHD and evidence-based treatments. Further research will evaluate effects on treatment participation.

Antonyms: A Computer Game to Improve Inhibitory Control of Impulsivity in Children with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

The design of a computer-supported serious game concerning inhibition skills in children with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is reported. The game consists of a series of activities, each eliciting the tendency to respond in an immediate, inadequate way. The game is based on the Dual Pathway Model of ADHD proposed by Sonuga-Barke. In the game, children must block impulsive tendencies, reflect upon the situation, inhibit irrelevant thoughts, and find the non-intuitive solution. In the game, the player personifies a superhero, who is asked to save a realm on the opposite side of the Earth (Antonyms) where things happen according to the opposite of the usual rules. The hero faces a series of challenges, in the form of mini-games, to free the planet from enemies crossing different scenarios. To succeed in the game, the player should change his/her attitude by thinking before performing any action rather than acting on impulse. The player is induced to be reflective and thoughtful as well. Results from the evaluation of a preliminary version of the serious game are reported. They support the notion that Antonyms is an adequate tool to lead children to inhibit their tendency to behave impulsively.

Exploring Factors Influencing Medication Adherence From Initiation to Discontinuation in Parents and Adolescents With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

This study explored factors influencing parents' and adolescents' decisions to initiate, continue, and discontinue medication for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Three focus groups were conducted with parents (n = 23) of children with ADHD, and 2 with adolescents diagnosed with ADHD (n = 11). Parents and adolescents independently discussed the complexities surrounding their decisions to adhere to ADHD medication. Parents' negative beliefs about medication (fear of side effects) discouraged them from initiating therapy. Once initiated, parents struggled in balancing the need to medicate (improvements in learning and behavior) and concerns (weight loss, perceived delayed development) about the medication. Parents who had more concerns about the medication were more in favor of discontinuation. For adolescents, the desire for self-expression without being medicated was the primary factor determining nonadherence and/or discontinuation of the medication. Adolescents' medication-related concerns were relatively different from the parents. Phase- and group-specific interventions are required to improve medication adherence in people with ADHD.

Predictors for Receiving Medication and/or Psychotherapy in Children Newly Diagnosed With ADHD: A Longitudinal Population-Based Cohort Study

Objective: The aim of this study is to identify characteristics predicting the use of medication and/or psychotherapy after a first ADHD diagnosis. Method: This cohort study was based on German claims data including 12,250 treatment-naïve children aged 5 to 12 years with an incident ADHD diagnosis in 2010. Logistic regression models were used to estimate associations between children's characteristics at first diagnosis and the chosen treatment within the following 5 years. Results: Medication use was associated with male sex, an ADHD diagnosis "with hyperactivity," comorbid depression, and comorbid developmental and conduct disorders. Male sex and comorbid neurotic and somatoform, conduct, and emotional disorders were associated with psychotherapy only. Receiving both treatments-instead of medication only-was associated with comorbid depression, neurotic and somatoform, conduct, and emotional disorders. Conclusion: In case of equal access to both treatment options, patients, for example, with externalizing symptoms were more prone to receive medication and/or psychotherapy than the average child diagnosed with ADHD.

Strategies for improving ADHD medication adherence

To maximize outcomes, understand and address the factors that affect adherence.

Factors Associated with Treatment Adherence in Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

BACKGROUND

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common psychiatric disorder in children. The aim of this study was to investigate factors related to treatment adherence in children with ADHD.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was done in 118 children (aged 6-12 years) with ADHD who have been on medications for at least 6 months. The patients were selected based on the convenience sampling method from those who were referred to child psychiatry clinic. Medication Adherence Report Scale, Belief about Medicines Questionnaire specific version, and Children Symptom Inventory-4 were completed by parents and teachers.

FINDINGS

Medication adherence had significant negative correlation with inattention scores on teacher-report forms (r = -0.27, P= 0.003) and poor economic status (P = 0.03). There was a positive correlation between medication adherence and history of psychopharmacological treatment in the family (P = 0.01), and father's education level (P = 0.001). Treatment adherence had no significant correlation with age, gender, comorbid disorders, mother's education, family history of ADHD, medication side effects, or parental concerns and beliefs about the necessity of drug use.

CONCLUSION

The factors found to have a correlation with adherence should be taken in to account by clinicians so that adherence can be improved in their patients.

Perceptions of ADHD Among Diagnosed Children and Their Parents: A Systematic Review Using the Common-Sense Model of Illness Representations

Research on children and parents' experiences of ADHD has grown in recent years, attracting attention to their subjective perception of ADHD as a disorder. Theoretical accounts of illness perception suggest that it is multi-dimensional, consisting of at least five core constructs (see the common-sense model of illness representations or CSM: Leventhal et al., in: Rachman (ed) Medical psychology, Pergamon, New York, vol 2, pp 7-30, 1980, in: Baum, Taylor, Singer (eds) Handbook of psychology and health: social psychological aspects of health, Earlbaum, Hillsdale, vol 4, pp 219-252, 1984). We suggest that the application of CSM in children/adolescents with ADHD and their parents may play an important role in understanding their coping behavior, treatment adherence, and emotional well-being. A systematic search identified 101 eligible studies that investigated the perception of ADHD among diagnosed children/adolescents and their parents. In general, these studies support the existence of the multiple facets of illness representations proposed by the CSM in both diagnosed youngsters and parents indicating substantial variability among both parents and youngsters on each of these facets. The comprehensive assessment of the representations of ADHD indicates imbalance attention to the different representations of ADHD in the literature; disproportional research attention has been paid to the perceived effectiveness of treatment (i.e., treatment control dimension) compared to other illness representations (e.g., timeline, consequence, and coherence), despite research showing their relevance to treatment adherence among other implications. The review identifies the limitation of existing relevant research, needed foci for future studies, specific testable hypotheses, and potential clinical implications of the multifaceted representations of ADHD among youngsters and carers alike.

Guideline Development for Technological Interventions for Children and Young People to Self-Manage Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: Realist Evaluation

BACKGROUND

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. ADHD can affect the individual, the individual's family, and the community. ADHD is managed using pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatments, which principally involves others helping children and young people (CAYP) manage their ADHD rather than learning self-management strategies themselves. Over recent years, technological developments have meant that technology has been harnessed to create interventions to facilitate the self-management of ADHD in CAYP. Despite a clear potential to improve the effectiveness and personalization of interventions, there are currently no guidelines based on existing evidence or theories to underpin the development of technologies that aim to help CAYP self-manage their ADHD.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to create evidence-based guidelines with key stakeholders who will provide recommendations for the future development of technological interventions, which aim to specifically facilitate the self-management of ADHD.

METHODS

A realist evaluation (RE) approach was adopted over 5 phases. Phase 1 involved identifying propositions (or hypotheses) outlining what could work for such an intervention. Phase 2 involved the identification of existing middle-range theories of behavior change to underpin the propositions. Phase 3 involved the identification and development of context mechanism outcome configurations (CMOCs), which essentially state which elements of the intervention could be affected by which contexts and what the outcome of these could be. Phase 4 involved the validation and refinement of the propositions from phase 1 via interviews with key stakeholders (CAYP with ADHD, their parents and specialist clinicians). Phase 5 involved using information gathered during phases 1 to 4 to develop the guidelines.

RESULTS

A total of 6 specialist clinicians, 8 parents, and 7 CAYP were recruited to this study. Overall, 7 key themes were identified: (1) positive rewarding feedback, (2) downloadable gaming resources, (3) personalizable and adaptable components, (4) psychoeducation component, (5) integration of self-management strategies, (6) goal setting, and (7) context (environmental and personal). The identified mechanisms interacted with the variable contexts in which a complex technological intervention of this nature could be delivered.

CONCLUSIONS

Complex intervention development for complex populations such as CAYP with ADHD should adopt methods such as RE, to account for the context it is delivered in, and co-design, which involves developing the intervention in partnership with key stakeholders to increase the likelihood that the intervention will succeed. The development of the guidelines outlined in this paper could be used for the future development of technologies that aim to facilitate self-management in CAYP with ADHD.

Use of Nutritional Supplements in Youth with Medicated and Unmedicated Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

OBJECTIVE

To find out whether use of nutritional supplements (NUS) differs between children and adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD; medicated or unmedicated), compared with those without the disorder.

METHODS

We used cross-sectional data from the population-based I.Family study conducted between 2013 and 2014 in eight European countries. Parents completed questionnaires and participated in interviews, for example, on health and medical history of their child. Data from 5067 children and adolescents aged 5-17 years were included. Exposures were medicated (with ADHD-approved medication) and unmedicated ADHD. The outcome was the use of NUS, measured by use of any or multiple different NUS. Multivariable logistic regression adjusted for sociodemographics and health determinants was used to find ADHD-depending differences.

RESULTS

The study sample comprised 4490 children and adolescents without ADHD and 51 medicated and 76 unmedicated subjects with ADHD. Regarding the use of any NUS, no statistically significant differences were found between children and adolescents without ADHD (18%) and those with medicated (18%) or unmedicated ADHD (22%). However, discrepancies appear when considering multiple use of NUS, not reported for any medicated ADHD subject but remarkably often for unmedicated ADHD subjects (13%), resulting in an adjusted odds ratio of 2.6 (95% confidence interval, 1.2-5.6) when compared with those without ADHD (5%).

CONCLUSION

Children and adolescents who were not using medication for treating ADHD potentially took NUS as oral remedies. Given the potential for a delay of indicated treatments and for use of those NUS which have no proven effectiveness, pediatricians should actively explore whether NUS have been used to treat ADHD core symptoms, and families should be informed that the average effect size has to be considered small.

Negev Bedouin Teachers' Attitudes Toward ADHD and Its Pharmacological Treatment

Little is known about the attitudes of Negev Bedouin toward attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and its pharmacological treatment. This study examines the perspectives of Negev Bedouin teachers on pharmacological treatment. Thirty-six teachers are asked to consider how their views influence the way they relate to pupils' parents. A grounded-theory analysis of semistructured interviews illuminates ambivalence in teachers' attitudes. Teachers, like the rest of their community, when asked about the implications of an ADHD evaluation for their children, respond that ADHD and its pharmacological treatment cause dishonor. When asked what ADHD means when it is their pupils who are diagnosed and treated, however, teachers, like the education establishment, accept the need for medication. However, they fail to communicate this need to parents because their attempts to do so show parents that they consider their children "flawed"-causing parents to oppose treatment even more lest they succumb to social stigma.

Pharmacotherapy Adherence for Pediatric Anxiety Disorders: Predictors and Relation to Child Outcomes

Background

Pharmacotherapy is considered an evidenced-based treatment for anxious youth. There is a need to better understand the relation between medication adherence and child outcomes.

Objective

This study prospectively examined:1) baseline predictors of adherence and 2) the relation between medication adherence and clinical outcomes in children and adolescents with anxiety disorders.

Methods

Participants were 349 youth randomized to sertraline, pill placebo, or sertraline plus cognitive behavioral therapy in the Child/Adolescent Anxiety Multimodal Study (CAMS) and followed over 12 weeks. The measure of pharmacotherapy adherence used was pharmacotherapist (PT) ratings of adherence at each session. Four domains of baseline predictors were examined (demographics, child clinical variables, family/parent variables, and treatment variables).

Results

Multiple regression analyses revealed few significant predictors of adherence. The most robust predictors of greater adherence were living with two parents and parents' positive expectations that medication would lead to better outcomes. Pharmacotherapists' ratings of higher adherence predicted higher global functioning at post treatment and treatment responder status.

Conclusions

In order to increase adherence, improving expectations and instilling hope for positive outcomes and problem solving ways to overcome pragmatic barriers associated with single parent families is recommended.

A qualitative study exploring the decision of parents to use medication in attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder

BACKGROUND

Reported prevalence of ADHD in children varies greatly from country to country. There is a similar disparity between rates of medication prescriptions for ADHD, with significant variation existing between rates in USA and Europe. North American studies report that parents have concerns about starting and continuing ADHD medication in children, though little is known about experiences in other geographies and healthcare systems. These studies may inform supports required, and help understand if these concerns may result in different treatment patterns, in other geographies.

OBJECTIVE

To explore experiences of parents of children who used ADHD medication in Ireland.

METHODS

A qualitative methodology was employed. Data were gathered through in-depth semi-structured interviews with ten parents who had a child with ADHD and had commenced medication. Analysis was performed using a phenomenographic approach.

RESULTS

Four descriptive categories relating to parents' experiences of decision-making emerged. Symptom severity prior to diagnosis, duration of ADHD symptoms and parental struggle to make an informed risk/benefit decision influenced decision-making. The child's immediate response to medication was identified as an important factor facilitating persistence and adherence. Over time, parents sought to regain some control over and gain confidence in medication management and decision-making.

CONCLUSIONS

The decision to use medication in ADHD is difficult and dynamic for parents in Ireland. It is driven by a sense of urgency and powerlessness, mobilizing feelings of doubt, anxiety and guilt before concluding with a sense of autonomy and increased confidence. Lack of awareness of ADHD and treatments, alongside access to care issues, add to parental anxiety in Ireland. This is in contrast to previous North American studies. Current provisions of support and information at the time of ADHD diagnosis are insufficient. Initial reaction to medication options should be explored by clinicians and support continued over time.

Measuring impairment when diagnosing adolescent ADHD: Differentiating problems due to ADHD versus other sources

The DSM-5 requires clinicians to link ADHD symptoms to clinically meaningful impairments in daily life functioning. Measuring impairment during ADHD assessments may be particularly challenging in adolescence, when ADHD is often not the sole source of a youth's difficulties. Existing impairment rating scales are criticized for not specifying ADHD as the source of impairment in their instructions, leading to potential problems with rating scale specificity. The current study utilized a within subjects design (N = 107) to compare parent report of impairment on two versions of a global impairment measure: one that specified ADHD as the source of impairment (Impairment Rating Scale-ADHD) and a standard version that did not (Impairment Rating Scale). On the standard family impairment item, parents endorsed greater impairment as compared to the IRS-ADHD. This finding was particularly pronounced when parents reported high levels of parenting stress. More severe ADHD symptoms were associated with greater concordance between the two versions. Findings indicate that adolescent family related impairments reported during ADHD assessments may be due to sources other than ADHD symptoms, such as developmental maladjustment. To prevent false positive diagnoses, symptom-specific wording may optimize impairment measures when assessing family functioning in diagnostic assessments for adolescents with ADHD.

Individualised short-term therapy for adolescents impaired by attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder despite previous routine care treatment (ESCAadol)-Study protocol of a randomised controlled trial within the consortium ESCAlife

BACKGROUND

Despite the high persistence rate of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) throughout the lifespan, there is a considerable gap in knowledge regarding effective treatment strategies for adolescents with ADHD. This group in particular often shows substantial psychosocial impairment, low compliance and insufficient response to psychopharmacological interventions. Effective and feasible treatments should further consider the developmental shift in ADHD symptoms, comorbidity and psychosocial adversity as well as family dysfunction. Thus, individualised interventions for adolescent ADHD should comprise a multimodal treatment strategy. The randomised controlled ESCAadol study addresses the needs of this patient group and compares the outcome of short-term cognitive behavioural therapy with parent-based telephone-assisted self-help.

METHODS/DESIGN

In step 1, 160 adolescents aged 12 to 17 years with a diagnosis of ADHD will undergo a treatment as usual (TAU) observation phase of 1 month. In step 2, those still severely affected are randomised to the intervention group with an Individualised Modular Treatment Programme (IMTP) or a telephone-assisted self-help programme for parents (TASH) as an active control condition. The IMTP was specifically designed for the needs of adolescent ADHD. It comprises 10 sessions of individual cognitive behavioural therapy with the adolescents and/or the parents, for which participants choose three out of 10 available focus modules (e.g. organisational skills and planning, emotion regulation, problem solving and stress management, dysfunctional family communication). TASH combines a bibliotherapeutic component with 10 counselling sessions for the parents via telephone. Primary outcome is the change in ADHD symptoms in a clinician-rated diagnostic interview. Outcomes are assessed at inclusion into the study, after the TAU phase, after the intervention phase and after a further 12-week follow-up period. The primary statistical analysis will be by intention-to-treat, using linear regression models. Additionally, we will analyse psychometric and biological predictors and moderators of treatment response.

DISCUSSION

ESCAadol compares two short-term non-pharmacological interventions as cost-efficient and feasible treatment options for adolescent ADHD, addressing the specific needs and obstacles to treatment success in this group. We aim to contribute to personalised medicine for adolescent ADHD intended to be implemented in routine clinical care.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS), Current Controlled Trial DRKS00008974, http://apps.who.int/trialsearch/Trial2.aspx?TrialID=DRKS00008974 ; http://www.drks.de/drks_web/navigate.do?navigationId=trial.HTML&TRIAL_ID=DRKS00008974 ; Registered on 28 December 2015.

Cross-Informant Disagreement on Behavioral Symptoms in Adolescent Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and Its Impact on Treatment Effects

Abstract. In assessing adolescent behavior difficulties, parents, teachers, and the adolescents themselves are key informants. However, substantial disagreement has been found between informants. Specifically, children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) tend to overestimate their competencies, also known as “positive (illusionary) bias.” This study compared parent, teacher, and adolescent ratings of ADHD and other behavioral symptoms in a sample of 114 adolescents with ADHD. Further, the effect of cross-informant disagreement (CID) on treatment outcomes was investigated in a subsample of 54 adolescents who had undergone a training and coaching intervention. Overall, there was moderate agreement among informants. Parent and adolescent ratings were more strongly correlated with each other than with teacher ratings. The strongest discrepancy was found between teacher and adolescent ratings on prosocial behavior. This discrepancy explained 12% of the variance in parent-rated ADHD symptom severity after the intervention. The treatment was less effective in participants with high teacher-adolescent disagreement on prosocial behavior (d = 0.41) than with low disagreement (d = 0.98). These findings suggest that professionals working with adolescents with ADHD should consider multiple sources of information before initiating treatment and pay attention to cross-informant disagreements because these may indicate a risk of diminished treatment effects.

Beyond the pill: new medication delivery options for ADHD

Successful treatment of pediatric disorders has necessitated the development of alternative medication formulations, as children may prefer alternative dosage forms to tablets or capsules. This is especially true for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which is one of the most common chronic pediatric conditions and often involves children with a variety of overlapping physical, psychological, or neurodevelopmental disorders. A special challenge for developing alternative dosage forms for ADHD treatment is the incorporation of a once-daily long-acting formulation. Traditional ADHD medication formulations have been limited, and issues surrounding prescribed dosing regimens-including poor medication adherence, difficulty swallowing, and the lack of dosing titration options-persist in ADHD treatment. In other disease areas, the development of alternative formulations has provided options for patients who have issues with consuming solid dosage forms, particularly children and individuals with developmental disorders. In the light of these new developments, several alternative formulations for ADHD medications are under development or have recently become available. This article reviews the various strategies for developing alternative dosage forms in other disease areas and discusses the application of these strategies in ADHD treatment. Alternative dosage forms may increase medication adherence, compliance, and patient preference and, therefore, improve the overall treatment for ADHD.