Effectiveness of an Executive Functions Parental Program in ADHD Children

Abstract

Attention/Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most prevalent disorders in the child population. Evidence suggests that children with this disorder usually present impairments in executive functions (EF). This study aims to evaluate the effects of a home-based intervention applied by parents (Flii, A Space Adventure) on the EF of Brazilian children with ADHD. Sixteen children with ADHD aged 7 to 12  participated in this study. A battery of neuropsychological tests and questionnaires was applied as assessment. Afterwards, children’ received Flii programa applied at home by the parents. A relevant improvement in visuospatial working memory in the Flii group after the intervention (T2) compared to the control group. The results of the intragroup analyzes suggest that the intervention group had gains in processing speed, cognitive flexibility, verbal and visuospatial working memory. These results suggest that Flii was effective in promoting some changes in the children’ executive functioning.