Use of games in behavioral group therapy for children with ADHD

Abstract

As a part of Attention Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) features, significantly behavioral deficits and excesses can interfere in child’s overall functioning. Games can be used on behavioral group therapy with this specific population of children diagnosed with ADHD through playing situations. In this context, contingencies may be planned to obtain some behavioral developments: following rules, self control, social skills, self-esteem, increase stimulus control, organization, problem solving skills, academic skills and other important abilities. The role of the games and how it can be used to develop these behavioral abilities are described in this article, as well as how therapist can plan reinforcement contingencies to maintain the child’s behavior and develop their social skills. This article contains the role of games and how they are used. It is a group perspective of a specific children`s population diagnosed with ADHD.