News 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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Parent training is beneficial in dealing with ADHD and oppositional defiant disorder, but has just recently been studied in autism intervention. Lawrence Scahill, professor at Yale University School of Nursing and Child Study Center, studied 124 kids, aged 4 to 13 with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and behavioral problems. He reported that while all children were prescribed risperidone, half the children and their parents received six months of “parent training.” The researchers discovered that the children whose parents received training needed less medication and behavioral problems seemed decreased. Scahill cautions that more research is needed.

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Osseo Area Source of Information and Support (OASIS) in Minnesota has begun a series of lectures on dealing with kids on the autism spectrum. OASIS will meet once a month and will focus on ADHD, ADD, LD, EBD, ODD, OCD, anxiety, depression and bipolar issues as well as autism. While the meetings last from 6:30-8:30, participants may stay longer to continue with questions and answers. PrairieCare and Weaver Lake Elementary School sponsor OASIS. Future topics will include: behavior therapy, social skills, and use of technology.

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A recent study shows that meditation may “switch off” areas of the brain associated with some psychiatric disorders, including autism. Many people have used meditation for many years for relaxation as well as quitting smoking and coping with the stress of illness. Dr. Judson Brewer of Yale University thinks meditation can do a whole lot more, including helping with ADHD, dementia, and anxiety. Brewer explained that some mental disorders seem to occur when we are preoccupied with our own thoughts. Meditation seems to affect this preoccupation by reducing that part of the brain’s activity. Another study is planned to look at the neurological effects of medication with yoga on veterans.

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Dr. Gina Diaz-Cembrano recently opened the I Listen Enhancement Center for Maximum Learning in the Philippines. Although a dentist by training, Gina felt teaching preschool was a better way to help families who had children with autism and other developmental issues such as ADHD. The center uses the Tomatis Method. Gina explains, “The Tomatis method re-trains the listening system by using electronically modified music and language to re-educate, stimulate and improve the way in which we process auditory information.” Children with learning disabilities often have difficulty in communication and social interaction, the Tomatis methods attempts to increase listening skills, communication, and memory and attention.... 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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