This Article Full Text (PDF) References Alert me when this article is cited Alert me if a correction is posted Citation Map Services Email this article to a friend Similar articles in this journal Alert me to new issues of the journal Add to Saved Citations Download to citation manager Request Permissions Request Reprints Add to My Marked Citations Citing Articles Citing Articles via Google Scholar Citing Articles via Scopus Google Scholar Articles by Walden, E. L. Articles by Thompson, S. A. Search for Related Content PubMed Articles by Walden, E. L. Articles by Thompson, S. A. Social Bookmarking                         What's this?

A Review of Some Alternative Approaches to Drug Management of Hyperactivity in Children

Sheila A. Thompson, MS

Numerous theories concerning the etiology of hyperkinesis have been proposed in recent years, adding to the mystery of this syndrome. But, regardless of causation, the most outstanding symptom of hyperkinesis-hyperactivity-remains a problem for educators and parents.

The most common treatment for hyperactivity has been the use of psychotropic drugs, and is seen by many as a panacea for resolving hyperactive behavior problems. The rationale for their use is that if drugs can help decrease the symptoms of hyperactivity and increase the benefits of educational exposure, then drug therapy has served a useful purpose.

Since some children experience negative side effects, and the long-term consequences of chemical management have not been thoroughly investigated, drug therapy should be considered a more extreme alternative to nonmedical management. Available intervention techniques for treating the hyperactive child include a wide range of alternatives to chemical management and should be used whenever possible prior to the initiation of chemical intervention.

Journal of Learning Disabilities, Vol. 14, No. 4, 213-238 (1981)
DOI: 10.1177/002221948101400408


CiteULike    Complore    Connotea    Del.icio.us    Digg    Reddit    Technorati    Twitter    What's this?