| The problem. Hyperactivity is the most common problem referred to child guidance clinics. Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD, is a chronic disorder, and if left untreated, it can manifest as additional problems. Primary “traditional” treatment approaches such as pharmacotherapy and structural, psychotherapeutic, behavioral treatments have limitations, and there are serious concerns about some traditional treatment approaches. Due to these limitations and concerns, caretakers and adults with ADHD are trying alternative/non-traditional treatment approaches without knowing whether these alternative treatments are truly effective.; It is highly important to provide the parents and caretakers of ADHD children and the adult population with ADHD with a critical review of the literature on non-traditional treatments. This critical review is needed to help determine what the most effective method of treatment is before investing valuable time and resources.; Method. The present study critically reviews and evaluates the empirical findings and overall quality of the published empirical research on the effectiveness of specific prevalent non-traditional or alternative modes of treatment for ADHD over the last decade (1992–2002). Non-traditional treatments are defined by and limited for the present study to 4 specific categories, which include: (a) dietary interventions and strategies, (b) nutritional supplementation With macronutrients, (c) nutritional supplementation with micronutrients, and (d) herbal and homeopathic treatments.; Results. The 4 prevalent non-traditional treatment categories are evaluated and critiqued on the following 4 measures: (a) conceptual status, that is, how the empirical research ties into the various etiologies (the presence of a theoretical foundation to serve as the basis for the research), (b) comprehensive reporting of significant findings, including treatment efficacy and side effects, in the context of the strengths and weaknesses of the studies, (c) the status of the general literature, including quality, quantity, and breadth; and (d) the take-home message for the reader regarding each alternative treatment for ADHD. |
