Date of Award
12-1984
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy
Department
Psychology
First Advisor
Dr. R. Wayne Fuqua
Second Advisor
Dr. Alan Poling
Third Advisor
Dr. Jack Micheal
Abstract
The effects of methylphenidate hydrochloride (Ritalin) on the learning and performance of four hyperactive children were evaluated using a repeated acquisition procedure with both learning and performance components. Three dosages of methylphenidate plus a placebo were evaluated under double-blind experimental conditions. Dosages treated included each subject's therapeutic dosage, a dosage 5 milligrams higher, and a dosage 5 milligrams lower. Methylphenidate produced no effect on either the number of errors per session or on the rate of responding across the range of dosages tested suggesting that the medication neither facilitated nor impaired learning or performance. Data were also collected on social behavior in the classrooms using the abbreviated Connors Teacher Rating Scale (CTRS) and on daily math scores for two of the four subjects. Scores on the abbreviated CTRS generally decreased (less "hyperactive") as medications were increased. Math scores were variable both within and across conditions, but generally higher during the placebo condition.
Access Setting
Dissertation-Open Access
Recommended Citation
Yoder, Paul James, "Methylphenidate Effects on the Learning and Performance of Four Hyper Active Children" (1984). Dissertations. 2403.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/dissertations/2403