From the Guidelines
Video games, particularly those designed as cognitive training tools, can be a useful adjunct to established treatments for ADHD in children, but should not replace behavioral therapy and medications. When considering the use of video games for children with ADHD, it's essential to prioritize established treatments like behavioral therapy and medications, such as methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) or amphetamine-based medications (Adderall, Vyvanse) 1. Some key points to consider when using video games as part of an ADHD treatment plan include:
- Limiting gaming sessions to 30-60 minutes
- Implementing clear time boundaries
- Choosing age-appropriate games
- Monitoring for signs of increased hyperactivity or irritability The benefits of video games for ADHD likely stem from their ability to provide immediate feedback, consistent rewards, and high stimulation, which align well with how the ADHD brain processes information and maintains engagement 1. It's also important to note that the most effective treatment plans often involve a combination of therapies, including behavioral therapy and medication, as seen in the MTA study, which found that combined treatment offered greater improvements on academic and conduct measures compared to medication alone 1. Ultimately, the decision to use video games as part of an ADHD treatment plan should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional and should be based on the individual needs and circumstances of the child.
From the Research
Video Game Use in Pediatrics with ADHD
- Video games have shown potential for aiding in child healthcare, particularly in the assessment and management of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) 2.
- A systematic review of video game-based assessment tools and interventions for children with ADHD found that these tools were effective in discriminating ADHD cases from controls and improving cognitive areas and decreasing ADHD symptoms 2.
- Another study found that children with ADHD had a higher rate of compulsive video game use than controls, highlighting the need for health supervision visits to assess leisure activities and identify those at risk for game addiction 3.
Health Effects of Video Games
- Video games can have both positive and negative effects on children's physical health, mental health, social behaviors, and cognitive development 4.
- The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that pediatricians have knowledge of the unique benefits and risks associated with video game use and provide anticipatory guidance to parents and children 4.
- A review of the health effects of video games in children and adolescents discussed the epidemiology, clinical features, and diagnosis of gaming disorder, including the use of existing screening tools 4.
Treatment of ADHD Symptoms
- Pharmacological treatment of ADHD symptoms in children and youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been found to be effective, with methylphenidate and atomoxetine being the most commonly used medications 5.
- A systematic review and meta-analysis found that methylphenidate and atomoxetine reduced hyperactivity and inattention in children and youth with ASD, although the quality of evidence was low/very low 5.
- Another study found that combined methylphenidate and atomoxetine pharmacotherapy was effective in reducing ADHD symptoms in patients with ADHD, although the sample size was small 6.