Research summaries for autism therapy: attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

definition of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): ADHD is a neurological disorder resulting in inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. ADHD is not included in the autism spectrum disorders.

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Methylphenidate may help adults who are diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and Asperger syndrome.

This case study presents an adult patient with ADHD and Aspergers syndrome. The 26-year old man had had problems since childhood with making and keeping social contacts. The authors note that when an adult has both ADHD and Aspergers syndrome the case may be complex and hard to diagnose. This is because both ADHD and Aspergers syndrome may result in poor social skills and lack of attention. In the case of this patient, treatment with methylphenidate improved his ability to function and reduced his ADHD symptoms.

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Flotation tanks may be a useful tool for calming the nervous system and helping with sensory integration in adults with Asperger syndrome and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

This case study describes an adult with Asperger syndrome and ADHD who was treated with flotation-Restricted Environmental Stimulation Technique (flotation-REST). The 36-year old woman from Sweden also had depression. She was given 19 sessions over a year and at the end felt that she was better able to live life on her own. With time she learned to control how alert she was (arousal control). She also learned to control how active she was (activity regulation). Her senses relaxed and she became better at sensory integration.

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Interactive Metronome training may help children with attention deficit disorder or pervasive developmental disorder who have deficits in visuomotor control and speed.

This study was designed to see if Interactive Metronome therapy can help these children move better and pay attention better. The study was designed so that each child acted as his or her own control. The authors found that Interactive Metronome seemed to help with some aspects of motor control and reaction time. They did not see improved attention in the children after therapy. The authors note that there is very little research to back up the many claims made by people who offer Interactive Metronome therapy.

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The first step is called “initiating joint attention.” This article describes the way that 3 preschool children with autism were taught these skills. Therapists used behavioral therapy techniques based on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) theory. For one boy, the therapist used toys that could show a response (e.g., singing stuffed animal or piano with lights).... Read more...


Synonyms for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) include: ADHD, Attention Deficit, attention deficit disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
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