Social and Emotional Skills Development for ADHD

Abstract

: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is characterized by a persistent inability to sustain attention on tasks as well as a pervasive pattern of hyperactivity / impulsivity. ADHD is evident in childhood years and hence is a developmental disorder. The present case study is of a client aged 10 diagnosed with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). A Mental Status Examination was conducted and a comprehensive report is presented. The presenting complaints of the client include distractibility, inattention, communication and academic concerns, and anger outbursts. Problem areas were identified and treatment plans are recommended. Interventions were designed to target the specific issues of a lack of social and emotional skills. The interventions were shown to be effective as the client exhibited an improvement in said skills after the intervention. The implications of such effectiveness are important in clinical settings as well as for parents and teachers.