The Effects of Mindfulness Meditation on Core Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Symptoms, Family Functioning and Social Functioning in Children Aged Six to Nine

Abstract

Objective: To explore the effects of mindfulness meditation on core attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms, family functioning and social functioning in young children. Methods: A convenience sample of 43 children aged 6–9 years who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria was recruited at our hospital between 3 June and 3 July 2024. Participants were randomly assigned to an intervention group (22 cases) or a control group (21 cases). The intervention group received family mindfulness meditation combined with medication, whereas the control group received medication alone. Relevant indicators were collected and compared before and after the intervention. Results: Compared with pre-intervention, the intervention group showed significant improvements in: Life Skills and Risk-Taking Activities (Weiss-P Functional Defect Scale); Conduct Problems and Psychosomatic Problems (Conners Parent Symptom Questionnaire, PSQ); and Attention–Visual Function (Integrated Visual and Auditory Continuous Performance Test, IVA-CPT). In contrast, the control group only improved significantly in Hyperactivity–Impulsivity (SNAP-IV Scale) and Psychosomatic Problems (PSQ). Post-intervention, the intervention group improved more in PSQ’s Conduct Problems and Psychosomatic Problems than the control group. However, the control group had no significant changes in most scale scores vs baseline, except Inattention (SNAP-IV) and Response Control (IVA-CPT).Medication subgroup analysis showed: vs pre-intervention, the intervention group improved significantly in PSQ’s Conduct Problems and Psychosomatic Problems (with significant time×group interactions); the control group had no significant changes in these indicators.Additionally, ANCOVA (controlling gender/age) for Weiss-P’s Self-Management showed: the intervention group’s pre-post score difference was statistically significant, while the control group only had a marginally significant increase. Mixed ANOVA confirmed significant time×group interactions for Weiss-P’s Life Skills and Risk-Taking Behavior, PSQ’s Conduct Problems, and IVA-CPT’s Response Control. Conclusion: Simplified mindfulness meditation improves core ADHD symptoms and family functioning, and concurrent medication may influence its efficacy.