Effects of maternal stimulant medication on observed parenting in mother-child dyads with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder

J Clin Child Adolesc Psychol. 2010;39(4):581-7. doi: 10.1080/15374416.2010.486326.

Abstract

This pilot study of 23 mothers with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and their offspring with ADHD examined the effects of maternal stimulant medication on observed interactions. Parent-child interactions were observed using a structured protocol before and after mothers underwent a 5-week, double-blind stimulant titration. Despite dramatic effects of medication on adult ADHD symptoms, this small pilot and open label laboratory-based study did not identify maternal stimulant effects on observed parenting or child behavior. Given the documented impairments in parenting displayed by adults with ADHD, behavioral parenting interventions may be needed in conjunction with medication for mothers with ADHD to optimize family outcomes.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / drug therapy*
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / psychology
  • Central Nervous System Stimulants / therapeutic use*
  • Child
  • Double-Blind Method
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Maternal Behavior / drug effects*
  • Maternal Behavior / psychology
  • Mother-Child Relations
  • Parenting / psychology*
  • Pilot Projects
  • Surveys and Questionnaires

Substances

  • Central Nervous System Stimulants