New study shows ADHD classroom changes do not improve child behaviour

Giving primary school children with ADHD extra time for tasks and other classroom adjustments may not change their behaviour or test results, according to new research published in the Jama Pediatrics journal.

Findings and Expert Views

Researchers from Florida International University studied more than 200 primary school children at US summer camps. The children switched between taking and not taking medication and different classroom environments. The study found that medication improved rule-following and test results, but changes like extended time, frequent breaks, standing desks, and low distraction spaces did not affect their performance. University of Auckland expert Professor Karen Waldie said the results match what researchers already know about the brain chemical dopamine and time blindness in ADHD. Stimulant medication like Ritalin increases dopamine in the prefrontal cortex to help focus on current tasks. However, Dr Melanie Woodfield noted the study used strict controls in a specialist summer camp with small classes, meaning the results need testing in real-world classrooms. Clinical psychologist Giselle Bahr pointed out that the camp classes had only 15 to 18 students and two adults, which does not match normal school conditions. Bahr also raised concerns about long-term risks linked to ADHD medications, while Waldie stated that methylphenidate is well-studied and helps reduce risks like accidents and mortality.

Context

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder affects focus and impulse control, often making traditional school tasks difficult for children. While common school adjustments like extra time seem helpful on paper, scientists continue to study which specific interventions work best in everyday classrooms.