Perceived benefits of the Playback Theatre for children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder : an exploratory study

Abstract

Treatment options for children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are limited. Some social work practitioners have attempted drama-based approaches to improve the functioning and well-being of such children. However, studies on such interventions are few, and their benefits to children with ADHD are uncertain. In this exploratory qualitative study, children with ADHD, their parents and a social worker were interviewed to investigate the perceived benefits of the Playback Theatre, a drama-based programme, particularly in terms of improvements in the executive functions that are often impaired in individuals with ADHD. Results of the study provided preliminary support that the Playback Theatre can improve all four dimensions of executive functions. Other improvements in social support and self-confidence of the children were also reported. The implications for future treatment model using the Playback Theatre, social work research and practice are discussed. 注意力缺陷/多动障碍症儿童的治疗选择不多，少数社会工作者尝试以戏剧为本的工作手法来改善有关儿童的功能及身心健康。然而，有关戏剧为本的介入研究不足，其对注意力缺陷/多动障碍症儿童的帮助效果仍不确定。此项质性、探索性研究通过访谈注意力缺陷/多动障碍症儿童、家长及社工，探寻了解他们对一项戏剧为本的工作手法—— “一人一故事剧场” 的受益认知，尤其是对于注意力缺陷/多动障碍症儿童普遍存在的执行功能缺损的提升效果。初步的研究结果发现， “一人一故事剧场”对于执行功能所有的四个维度都有积极效果。此外，儿童在社交支持及自信心亦见改善。本文最后讨论了运用 “一人一故事剧场”作为未来治疗模型的相关社会工作研究及实务的启示。