Cross-Age Peer Coaching: Enhancing the Peer Interactions of Children Exhibiting Symptoms of ADHD

Abstract

Previous research demonstrates that children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can experience social difficulties. Therefore, the current study examined the effects of cross-age peer coaching on social behaviors of first graders with significant symptoms of ADHD using a multiple baseline design. Four students who met criteria for ADHD participated, along with four third- or fourth-grade coaches without ADHD. Coaching pairs met each morning to establish a goal for the younger child to meet during free time. Although results were variable, findings suggested that the cross-age coaching program led to decreases in negative social behavior, and was highly acceptable to participants.

KEYWORDS:

• ADHD
• cross-age peer coaching
• social skills

Notes

Note. SSIS = Social Skills Improvement System; A = average; AA = above average; BA = below average.

Note. Comm = communication, Coop = cooperation; Assert = assertion; Resp = respect; Engage = engagement; SC = self-control; SSIS = Social Skills Improvement System; A = average; AA = above average; BA = below average.