Introduction
Attention problems in children can significantly impact their academic performance and social interactions. Traditional interventions, such as stimulant medication and behavioral therapy, often fall short of providing comprehensive solutions. Recent research from the ThinkRx randomized controlled trial offers promising evidence for clinician-delivered cognitive training as an effective alternative.
Research Insights
The study, "Clinician-delivered cognitive training for children with attention problems: effects on cognition and behavior from the ThinkRx randomized controlled trial," explores the impact of a clinician-delivered cognitive training program on children aged 8–14 years with attention problems. The trial involved a treatment group receiving 60 hours of cognitive training and a control group on a waitlist.
Key findings from the study include:
- Significant improvements in working memory, long-term memory, logic and reasoning, auditory processing, and intelligence quotient scores in the treatment group compared to the control group.
- Qualitative outcomes reported by parents included enhanced confidence, cooperation, and self-discipline in their children.
Implementing Cognitive Training in Practice
For practitioners, incorporating cognitive training programs like ThinkRx into their practice can lead to substantial cognitive and behavioral improvements in children with attention problems. Here are some strategies to consider:
- Personalized Training: Tailor cognitive training sessions to address individual cognitive deficits and strengths, ensuring a comprehensive approach to skill development.
- Integration of Deliberate Distractions: Unlike traditional methods that remove distractions, ThinkRx incorporates them to improve selective and divided attention skills, mimicking real-world environments.
- Focus on Multiple Cognitive Skills: Target various cognitive skills such as working memory, processing speed, and logic to foster overall cognitive development.
- Metacognitive Activities: Encourage children to reflect on their learning experiences and apply new skills to real-world scenarios, enhancing motivation and skill retention.
Encouraging Further Research
While the ThinkRx study provides compelling evidence for cognitive training, further research is needed to explore its long-term effects and applicability across diverse populations. Practitioners are encouraged to engage in research initiatives and contribute to the growing body of knowledge in this field.
Conclusion
The ThinkRx randomized controlled trial highlights the potential of clinician-delivered cognitive training to improve cognitive and behavioral outcomes in children with attention problems. By integrating these findings into practice, practitioners can enhance their therapeutic approaches and support children in achieving better academic and social outcomes.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Clinician-delivered cognitive training for children with attention problems: effects on cognition and behavior from the ThinkRx randomized controlled trial.
