Effectiveness of Barkley's program on problem-solving coping strategies among parents of children with ADHD

Introduction Best practice guidelines recommend providing parent management training (PMT) to parents of children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Objective The aim of this study, conducted in France, was to evaluate the effectiveness of a specific PMT—Barkley's program. Method Thus, two groups of parents of children with ADHD were followed and compared over time: one group did not participate in any interventions (non-PMT group; n = 25) and the other group followed Barkley's program (PMT group; n = 32). Parents completed the same measures at study entry, end of Barkley's program, and 6 months after to assess their: (a) knowledge about ADHD, (b) stress appraisals, (c) perceived control, (d) perceived social support, (e) coping strategies, (f) quality of life, and (g) adherence of the program (only for the PMT group). These variables were selected with reference to the multifactorial and integrative transactional model, which is based on the transactional model of stress; this study is also based on this model. Results Results showed a positive effect of Barkley's program on problem-solving coping strategies at the end of the program. However, no effects were found 6 months after its completion. Parents in the PMT group expressed satisfaction with Barkley's program, demonstrated adherence, and reported progress. Conclusion This study shows that Barkley's program meets the primary objective of PMTs, which is to help parents deal with their child's problem behaviors. In addition, the findings suggest that parental support should be provided as an ongoing process by care services.