The Influence of Rock Climbing as a Treatment Modality for Children with ADHD
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Authors
Wagner, Brittany
Issue Date
2023-10-22
Type
Capstone
Language
en
Keywords
ADHD , executive functions , physcial activity , rock climbing , children , adolescents
Alternative Title
Abstract
Current treatment options for children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) include pharmacotherapy, behavioural therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). There is limited research surrounding how exercise, specifically rock climbing, can be utilized in addressing the maladaptive symptoms of ADHD. A connection exists between exercise and improved executive functions (EFs) in children with ADHD, but the specific role of rock climbing in treating ADHD remains unclear. This literature review aims to investigate the following research question: "To what extent does physical activity, in particular, rock climbing, as a treatment modality, impact maladaptive symptoms in children diagnosed with ADHD?" According to the literature, physical activity, particularly a motor-cognitive exercise approach, is the most impactful in improving EFs in children with ADHD. Rock climbing is a motor-cognitive approach to exercise that can improve EFs such as sustained attention, problem-solving, planning, and inhibitory control. Rock climbing has also been linked to improved mindfulness and self-esteem, which could positively impact children diagnosed with ADHD. Recommendations for future research include the following questions: To what extent can rock climbing as an exercise intervention improve the physiological and psychological aspects of children with ADHD? To what extent can physical activity, in the absence of medication, alleviate the symptoms of ADHD in children and adolescents? Do children and adolescents with ADHD benefit more or less from exercise, such as rock climbing, compared to other treatment modalities such as pharmaceutical, behavioural, and cognitive? Lastly, To what extent can rock climbing aid in improving mindfulness and self-esteem in children and adolescents with ADHD?
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Citation
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License
Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 United States
openAccess
openAccess