The high prevalence of hyperactivity disorder and its related problems is the reason for the importance of seeking new therapies. Although several behavioral-cognitive models have been advocated in the literature, we are looking for research on what constitutes the most effective behavioral-cognitive model. Objectives: To determine the efficacy of verbal self-instruction program and to assess which component of the program was most predictive of decreasing the symptoms of ADHD in three medical and counseling centers in Hefei (China). Design: A randomized controlled clinical trial design was utilized with data before and after the program. Our sample consisted of 33 ADHD children admitted to the centers in March 2016. Results: The symptoms of ADHD were significantly reduced in the experimental group. Furthermore, perceived behavioral control increased in the experimental group but remained unchanged in the control group. Conclusion: The verbal self-instruction program was effective in decreasing the symptoms of ADHD.

Verbal Self-Instruction, ADHD, Symptoms, Children