Alternative Classroom and Teaching Strategies and Techniques that Support Boys with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): An Exploratory Study

Abstract

Boys are diagnosed five times more frequently than girls with Attention Deficit (ADHD). Further, teachers are finding it hard to cope with boys with ADHD due to a lack of understanding about ADHD symptoms and boys' personalities. Frequently medication has become the first option in addressing these issues. This research study examined current practices used for boys with behaviour problems as well as trialling a number of alternative approaches such as music therapy, aromatherapy, yoga, building and construction, gardening and computer generated learning. During the implementation phase, teachers were closely observed and then participated in an in-depth interview with the researcher. Through this exploratory study the data has revealed behavioural improvements as a result of the varying strategies and has demonstrated that alternative strategies may be a better option than medication for these boys with behavioural problems, including ADHD.