Family Therapy for Childhood ADHD: An Evidence Review

Plain-language summary

Research suggests that family therapy can play a supportive role in managing ADHD symptoms and improving family life for children with ADHD. While the evidence is still developing and some studies have focused on specific approaches like mindfulness or cognitive behavioral therapy within a family context, it appears that engaging the family in treatment can be beneficial. However, direct research specifically on "family therapy" as a standalone intervention for ADHD symptoms across the board is limited, with many studies combining it with other treatments or focusing on related areas like anxiety.

Key findings

• Mindfulness-based training, when involving the family, shows promise in helping children with ADHD improve their attention, reduce impulsivity, and regulate their emotions.
• Addressing anxiety in children with ADHD through therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy, which often involves family, could lead to better outcomes for both the child and the family.
• Various non-pharmacological approaches, including those with a family focus, are being explored and discussed as important parts of managing ADHD.
• Expert guidelines suggest that a comprehensive approach to managing ADHD in children and adolescents often includes support for families.
• Children with both ADHD and other conditions like autism may experience additional challenges in diagnosis and treatment, highlighting the need for tailored, family-inclusive interventions.

Studies cited (3)

1. Mindfulness-based training effect on attention, impulsivity, and emotional regulation among children with ADHD: The role of family engagement in randomized controlled trials — Elzohairy NW, Elzlbany GAM, Khamis BI (2024, Archives of psychiatric nursing, rct)

   DOI: 10.1016/j.apnu.2024.10.001

2. Does the treatment of anxiety in children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) using cognitive behavioral therapy improve child and family outcomes? Protocol for a randomized controlled trial — Sciberras E, Efron D, Patel P (2019, BMC psychiatry, rct)

   DOI: 10.1186/s12888-019-2276-3 PMCID: PMC6854614

3. Family therapy for adolescents with ADHD — Robin AL (2014, Child and adolescent psychiatric clinics of North America, other)

   DOI: 10.1016/j.chc.2014.06.001