Date of Award
8-1986
Degree Name
Master of Arts
Department
Psychology
First Advisor
Dr. R. Wayne Fuqua
Second Advisor
Dr. Alan Poling
Third Advisor
Dr. Howard E. Farris
Access Setting
Masters Thesis-Open Access
Abstract
The effects of methylphenidate (Ritalin) on the learning and performance of a child diagnosed Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity (ADDH) was evaluated using a repeated acquisition apparatus. A placebo and three dosages of methylphenidate were evaluated in both the learning and performance components of the experiment. Dosages tested included the subject's therapeutic dosage, a dosage 5 mg higher, and a dosage 5 mg lower. Methylphenidate produced no effect of consequence on the number of errors per session, suggesting that the medication neither impaired nor facilitated learning or performance at the range of dosages investigated. Data were also collected on social behavior in the classroom with the Connor's Abbreviated Teacher's Rating Scale (CATRS). No score fell within the hyperactive range of the scale during the experiment and there was no consistent dose-dependent effects demonstrated.
Recommended Citation
Heath, Kendra Leigh, "The Effects of Methylphenidate on the Learning and Performance of a Child Diagnosed ADDH" (1986). Masters Theses. 1336.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/masters_theses/1336