Attention deficit hyper-activity disorder is a medical condition that often shows up in school-aged children although the problems can start even younger. The person struggles with paying attention, hyperactive behaviors and low-impulse control. This can translate into low self-esteem, difficulty at school and struggles in relationships. Although the child’s behavior might improve with age, some people deal with symptoms for their entire lives. The symptoms can worsen in high school as the child needs to work independently and faces additional pressure from peers. These challenges might cause them to engage in at-risk behaviors, such as substance abuse, depression, unsafe sexual practices and more. Treatment is one of the best ways to help if your teen boy is struggling with ADHD. This can include a protocol of behavioral therapy and medication. In addition, some schools for troubled teens are designed to help boys with ADHD.
Behavior Modification and Medications
Medication can help relax and calm the child so that he or she better responds to a behavioral treatment plan. However, medications might not work for everyone. On the other hand, some parents shun medications because they believe their child will never be off them. This is not always the case, and your family doctor or the school physician can better address your concerns.
What To Look For In A School for Troubled Teens Designed to Help Boys with ADHD
You will want the school to focus on behavioral therapy in order to provide the most support for your child. Behavior modification means that parents and teachers work with the child to teach him or her new skills. Involved adults learn how to act differently in order to change the child’s response. Consistency as a team also helps the child.
The school medical professional will first talk to you about your concerns regarding your child’s behaviors. Once you agree on behaviors that need to stop, you can identify new skills that your teen can employ. However, do not list typical ADHD symptoms but address the related problems, such as listening and obeying teachers and parents and sharing with classmates. As the child’s behavior improves in one area, modify the treatment goals and plans. Finally, the school administration and the teachers should be familiar with and have experience with ADHD and behavior modification techniques.
Treatment Goals for Children With ADHD
While every child will differ in the problems he or she faces, teens with ADHD often struggle with peer relationships. However, the sooner that he or she can learn to cope, the better they will perform later in life. Here are five ways that schools can help children improve social skills:
1. Teach the child how to negotiate and get along with peers and adults.
2. Work with the child to address social problems
3. Incorporate social skills in other activities, such as playing card games or board games or involvement in sports.
4. Decrease undesired behaviors, such as rude talk or unwillingness to share.
5. Encourage friendships between the students and other children.