DBT Skills Group for Adolescents with ADHD
This study is exploring a type of group therapy called Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) specifically adapted for teenagers aged 13-16 who have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). We know that ADHD symptoms can make it harder for young people to manage their emotions and interact with others. This can sometimes lead to difficulties at school or in their social lives. DBT helps people learn skills to understand their feelings and react to them in more helpful ways. For example, if someone feels angry, DBT can teach them different ways to respond instead of acting aggressively. This pilot study wants to find out if this adapted DBT group is a good fit and can be successfully offered to young people with ADHD.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects how people pay attention, control impulses, and manage their activity levels. For teenagers, these symptoms can sometimes make daily life quite challenging. For example, they might find it harder to get along with others, struggle in school, or have difficulty controlling strong feelings like anger. We know that learning to manage emotions and social situations can make a big difference for young people with ADHD, helping them to have better experiences in life.
This study is looking at a specific type of group therapy called Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), which has been specially adjusted for teenagers with ADHD. DBT is all about teaching practical skills to help people understand their feelings and learn better ways to cope with them. Imagine you feel really upset; DBT can help you find different, more effective ways to handle that feeling instead of reacting impulsively. It can also help you communicate your needs to others more clearly.
Our aim is to work closely with teenagers who have ADHD to develop this group therapy program. Then, we will offer it to other young people with ADHD at the clinic where they received their diagnosis. We want to see if this type of group is both enjoyable and useful for them. We will be checking in with participants before and after the group to understand if it has made a positive impact.
Key takeaways
- This study explores a new group therapy for teens with ADHD.
- It teaches skills to help manage feelings and improve social interactions.
- The therapy is called Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT).
- It's for 13-16 year olds with an ADHD diagnosis.
- The study aims to see if the group is helpful and practical.
- Participation involves attending group sessions and completing some assessments.
Who may be eligible?
To take part in this study, you need to be a young person aged between 13 and 16 years old and have a confirmed diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Before you join, our clinics team will check to make sure the DBT skills group is a good fit for you and that you can comfortably take part in group activities.
There are a few reasons why someone might not be able to join. For example, if your English isn't strong enough for you to fully understand and participate in the group discussions, or if you've recently changed your medication for ADHD (within the last two weeks before the group starts). Also, if you're already receiving another type of talking therapy or have recently taken part in another research study, you might not be eligible. Finally, for the safety and comfort of everyone in the group, we need to make sure that no one joining would pose a risk to others.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- I am aged between 13 and 16 years old.
- I have been told by a doctor that I have ADHD.
- I haven't started or changed my ADHD medication in the last two weeks.
- I feel comfortable speaking and understanding English well enough for group discussions.
- I am not getting another type of talking therapy right now.
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you will join a special group therapy program focused on learning new skills. This program will be held at the child and adolescent clinic where you were diagnosed with ADHD. Before the group starts and after it finishes, we will ask you to complete some questionnaires or assessments. This helps us understand if the group has been helpful. You won't need to change your medication for this study, but we do ask that you haven't recently started or changed your medication in the two weeks before the group begins. The research team hopes to start inviting people in July 2023 and finish collecting all information by March 31st, 2024.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- South London and Maudsley Foundation TrustVerified postcodeLondon, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is ADHD?
ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It can make it harder to pay attention, control impulses, and sit still.
What is DBT?
DBT stands for Dialectical Behaviour Therapy. It's a type of therapy that teaches skills to help you understand and manage your feelings and get along better with others.
Who can join this study?
Teenagers aged 13 to 16 with a confirmed ADHD diagnosis who can take part in group activities.
How long will the study last?
The study aims to start recruiting in July 2023 and finish collecting information by March 31st, 2024.
Do I have to change my medicines to be in the study?
No, you don’t need to change your medicines. However, you should not have started new medication or changed your dose in the two weeks before the group begins.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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