Effectiveness of Cognitive-behavioral Play Therapy on Improving Anxiety and Aggression Disorders in a Child With ADHD: A Case Study

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the effects of cognitive-behavioral play therapy on anxiety and aggression in children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) by reporting a 7-year-old boy with ADHD inattentive type diagnosed by a psychiatrist. According to the interview, it was observed that the child was physically abused by the father. The chief complaint of the patient’s family was the symptoms of aggression, anxiety disorder, and urinary incontinence. We used the trauma system therapy model, which is used for children and adolescents who have had traumatic experiences and problems with emotional and behavioral modifications. The intervention was provided in 8 sessions for 2 days a week and lasted 45 minutes each. The child was evaluated using the Aggression Scale for Preschoolers and Preschool Anxiety Scale. The results of this study showed that cognitive behavior play therapy can reduce anxiety and aggression in ADHD children who are physically abused.