Improving sports skills and sportsmanship in children diagnosed with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Children diagnosed with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) oft en display deficiencies in communication skills, social competence, and emo tional regulation. Many parents report that these difficulties are especial ly obvious in the context of sports participation. These children are more likely to experience social problems and be less athletically competent tha n their peers. Thus, sports skills and sportsmanship training may be benefi cial to children diagnosed with ADHD. In the present study, a multi-compone nt skills and behavior management program was developed in the context of a sports-skills camp. In the first component of the study, the efficacy of b asketball skills training was examined for two boys. Results indicate that the training decreased dribbling errors but had no effect on shooting perfo rmance. In a second component, a token system was implemented to increase s portsmanlike behaviors and suppress unsportsmanlike behavior for three stud y participants. The contingencies placed on good sportsmanship also appeare d to have positive effects on other aspects of game performance. The basket ball camp also increased the bays' interest in basketball and was evaluated positively by their parents. Recommendations for the development of other sports camps are also included.