Research from a team of clinical psychologists at the University of Waterloo has the potential to improve the lives of children with learning and behavioural difficulties, such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The researchers are seeking participants for their ongoing study.
According to the Waterloo psychologists, children with ADHD, though a diverse group, are generally at increased risk of negative outcomes later, including academic underachievement, underemployment, and poor social relationships. This project aims to understand the factors that both protect children from and lead to these negative outcomes. Ultimately, the goal is to gather information that will lead to the development of practical interventions.
"The study will offer parents and schools more effective approaches for supporting children with issues such as ADHD and other learning and behavioral difficulties," said Professor Tara McAuley, co-investigator of the project. “Our findings may enable us to develop interventions that result in improved student outcomes."
Parents and teachers involved are asked to complete questionnaires about the child's behaviour in home and school settings. The parents would also participate in an interview with the researchers, taking up to 90 minutes. It is not necessary for the child to have received an assessment or diagnosis prior to participating in this project.
Professor McAuley and Professor Elizabeth Nilsen, both from the Department of Psychology at Waterloo, are leading the project. They investigate children’s cognitive and behavioural development and are co-directors of the Child and Adolescent Clinical Research Group (CACRG), which is affiliated with the Centre for Mental Health Research at Waterloo.
Families participating in the study will be offered feedback in the form of a free assessment of their child’s functioning in several important areas, including attention and behaviour, emotional adjustment, executive functioning, communication skills, and social relationships.
“Although we’re not conducting comprehensive psycho-educational assessments, we do look at many areas that are known to impact a child’s ability to function in his or her environment,” said Professor McAuley.
For more information, interested families can call 519-888-4567 ext. 32298 or visit the CACRG website. All studies conducted have been reviewed and received ethics clearance through a University of Waterloo Research Ethics Committee.
