Stimulant Treatment of ADHD: Effects on Creativity and Flexibility in Problem Solving

Abstract

The objective of this study was to determine whether Ritalin (methylphenidate, MPH) affects cognitive flexibility and creativity in children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Measures administered included the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test-Revised (WCST-R), the Test of Divergent Thinking (TDT), and the Conners' ADHD rating scale, for both on and off MPH conditions. Comparison of on and off MPH data indicated that MPH administration significantly decreased symptoms of ADHD, as rated by parents on the Conners'. No significant differences were found on the WCST-R as a function of MPH administration. The Elaboration subscale of the TDT was the only scale to show a significant decrease in scores with MPH administration.