Efficacy of an Organizational Skills Intervention for College Students With ADHD Symptomatology and Academic Difficulties

In exploring treatments for ADHD in college students, this study looked beyond medication. While drugs like methylphenidate are often prescribed, their long-term effectiveness and potential for misuse raise concerns. The study's goal was to determine if teaching students with ADHD organizational skills could improve their academic performance and manage ADHD symptoms. This approach is significant, given that many students with ADHD struggle with adjusting to college life, often linked to lower self-esteem and academic challenges.

The authors introduced a program focusing on organizational, time management, and planning (OTMP) skills. The study involved undergraduate students who either took part in the intervention or were in a comparison group. Those in the intervention attended three weekly sessions designed to enhance organizational skills. The program covered practical techniques like using calendars for scheduling, creating task lists, and implementing organizational systems. The effectiveness of this approach was measured by assessing academic performance, attention levels, and OTMP skills before and after the program.

The results indicated a positive outcome for the intervention group. Compared to the comparison group, these students showed significant improvements in inattention, hyperactivity/impulsivity, and academic performance. They also demonstrated better use of OTMP skills, marking a notable change from their initial capabilities.

This study implies that training in organizational skills could help reduce ADHD symptoms and enhance academic performance for college students. It presents an effective non-medication approach to addressing the challenges students with ADHD face in academic environments.

The findings of this study align with other research in the field. A study by Hartung et al., in 2022, also found that organizational and study skills interventions led to significant improvements in attention, ADHD symptoms, self-concept, and organizational skills.

Furthermore, research by Shaw-Zirt et al. in 2005 highlights the difficulties students with ADHD face in adjusting to college, particularly in social and academic aspects. These studies collectively underscore the importance of alternative approaches like organizational skill training in aiding college students with ADHD.