Examination of the utility of respite services on stress reduction for parents of children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder

Date
2008-04
Authors
Ruzic, Tamara
Wright, Kristi D.
Stulberg, Shelley
Kaiser, Stephanie
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Regina, Graduate Students' Association
Abstract

Research suggests that parents of children with mental health disorders have higher incidences of stress, physical illnesses, mental illnesses, and substance use. Of particular salience to the current project are the needs of parents of children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). More frequent and intense parent-child relational disruptions are observed within families with children with ADHD than families without children with diagnosed disorders. Respite care is one of the community services that may maintain and enhance the functioning of families of children and youth with mental health disorders. The current project was designed to provide parents with indirect respite by offering a structured athletic activity for a group of 10-12 children (ages 7-12) with ADHD twice per week for 13 weeks. Parent/child demographics, levels of parental perceived stress, and child psychopathology were measured at baseline and at completion of program. Individual positive and negative targeted behaviours were recorded during each session. It is anticipated that participation in this program will result in (1) decreased levels of parental perceived stress; (2) decreased levels of child psychopathology; (3) decreased frequency of targeted negative child behaviours; and (4) increased frequency of targeted positive child behaviours. A recreational respite program was designed for a group of children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is anticipated that participation in this program will reduce levels of parental stress, as well as decrease levels of child psychopathology.

Description
Poster presented at the 3rd Graduate Students' Research Conference, April 2008.
Keywords
ADHD, Stress disorders, Athletic program, Family health
Citation