But looking at these results, we can't say better parenting is the answer for most of these kids. The authors presented their preliminary results at the American College of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry meeting in Anaheim on Friday. They believe it is the largest study of the disorder. ADHD affects 3 percent to 9 percent of all children, affecting their ability to focus. Treatment can mean the difference between a kid ending up at Berkeley or ending up in prison.
Critics say doctors are too quick to diagnose ADHD and over-prescribe drugs for children.
But Jensen said the problem is that thousands of children aren't treated and more than half of children with the disorder have not been diagnosed. For the children receiving medication, if Ritalin didn't work, other medications were tried until each child was taking the drug and dose that was the most effective for him or her. Clinicians monitored those children and visited with them and their teachers each month. Intensive psychosocial therapy included training for parents and summer camps that stressed social skills for the children. For social skills, however, combined treatment was best.