Drug therapies, parent training help children with ADHD, severe aggression
Finding a safe and effective treatment for children who are a physical threat to siblings, other children, or adults, is a difficult and trying experience for families. Studies show that physical aggression is a common reason for bringing children to mental health clinics. For children with ADHD who are aggressive, the combination of stimulation therapy and behavioral management training for parents reduces their violent behaviors. Yet, some children remain a threat. One theory is that an additional medication to control aggression may further help alleviate their aggression. However, controversy remains whether this dual-drug strategy is effective and safe. To address this problem, Stony Brook researchers and their colleagues at The Ohio State University, University of Pittsburgh, and Case Western Reserve University in Ohio, conducted the "Treatment of Severe Childhood Aggression (TOSCA)" Study. It involved 168 children ages 6 to 12 who had been diagnosed with ADHD and d...