Cognitive Styles in Hyperactive Children and the Effect of Methylphenidate

Hyperactive and matched normal children were compared on four dimensions of cognitive style: reflection-impulsivity, field dependence-independence, constricted-flexible control, and automatization. The hyperactive group was more impulsive, more field dependent, more constricted in ability to control attention, and slower on measures of automatization than the control group. When the effect of methylphenidate on the cognitive styles of hyperactive children was examined, using a double blind, own control design, the drug resulted in less impulsive responding and improved ability to inhibit incorrect responses.