Stimulant Medication and the Treatment of Aggression in Children With Attentional Deficits

Reviews evidence regarding the efficacy of stimulant medications in treating aggression and antisocial behavior in externalizing youngsters, particularly those with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Despite claims that stimulant medication is not efficacious with respect to aggression, recent investigations with behavioral observation methodologies in large-group settings have revealed clinically significant reductions of aggressive behavior with stimulant treatment. Furthermore, among youngsters with attentional problems, both aggressive and nonaggressive subgroups show a positive response to such medication. Discussion focuses on the need for multimodality interventions with externalizing children.