|
|
|
|
(Defiant Children) The ADHD Family Group A Group for Parents and Children
Each Session Consists of: Gathering Games: Parents and Youth Together (15 minutes) Parenting Strategies: Parents Only (1 hour) Social Skills Training: Youth Only (1 hour) Family Interaction/Hands-On Application of Skills: Parents/Youth Together (45 minutes)
]
The ADHD Family Group is for both parents and children. Children ages 5-18 are eligible for the program. The group provides the parents with an opportunity to learn effective parenting strategies for managing their child at home and in the community. The child is also given the opportunity to learn and practice social skills. Then, during the family therapy component, these elements are brought together and practiced. To qualify, youth must have an ADHD or disruptive behavior diagnosis (e.g. Oppositional Defiant Disorder).
The ADHD Family Group is based on an empirically-supported treatment program by Russell Barkley entitled Defiant Children. It has been shown to be effective in a number of treatment studies. The ADHD Family Group uses the same basic principles as this and other related programs (e.g., The Incredible Years).
The youth’s curriculum addresses age-appropriate social skills, responsibility, self-esteem, cooperation, frustration tolerance, problem-solving, communication, and impulsivity. Youth are encouraged to set weekly goals and share their progress the following week.
Parents and youth come together at the end of each session to allow the parents an opportunity to practice the skills they learned. This family therapy portion of the time spent together provides each family with an opportunity to increase positive interactions and improve their relationship with other family members. Communication, positive reinforcement, and problem-solving are addressed during this time. Parents are also encouraged to practice the skills they learn through use of voluntary assignments. This includes the use of quiet time as well as other related skills.
Dr. Victoria Delong, agency Child Psychiatrist, may present on issues related to medication management.
If you have any questions please contact the ADHD Family Group Coordinator, Stephanie Griffiths by calling the Belden Village office of Child & Adolescent Service Center (330) 649-7373 ext. or by e-mailing her at sgriffit@casrv.org
|
|
