A systematic review of mindfulness based interventions for children and young people with ADHD and their parents

Illaria Terceli, Nuno Ferreira

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

Objective

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most prevalent disorders in childhood, which may pose risks in later life such as academic underachievement and anti-social behaviour. It has been suggested that mindfulness-based interventions (MBI) may contribute to positive outcomes with child and adult populations. In this article, we aim to systematically review the literature regarding the effectiveness of MBI on both children with ADHD and their parents.
Method

Seven databases were searched using the PRISMA criteria and included peer-reviewed journals and grey literature.
Results

Ten studies met the inclusion criteria. Findings suggested that MBI had positive results in addressing attention deficits in children with ADHD, but in terms of hyperactivity, the evidence was conflicting. MBI interventions also appear to effectively address parental stress and family functioning. However, the rating from the quality assessment showed several methodological limitations.
Discussion

The current evidence on the impact of MBI on ADHD symptoms is non-conclusive. However, promising data indicated the potential for MBI in addressing parental stress and family functioning. Further research is recommended to overcome the current methodological limitations.
Original languageEnglish
JournalGlobal Psychiatry
Volume2
Issue number1
DOIs
Publication statusE-pub ahead of print - 13 May 2019

Keywords

  • ADHD, mindfulness, hyperactivity, attention, intervention, systematic review, effectiveness, children, young people, parents

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