Behaviour parent training is an evidence based treatment approach where parents are taught positive reinforcement methods with the objective of improving their child’s behaviour (Chacko, Wymbs, Chimiklis, Wymbs & Pelham, 2012). Interventions are designed with the purpose of assisting parents in using more effective disciplining techniques through the manipulation of antecedents (e.g. rules and instructions) and consequences (e.g. rewards and time outs). 

Medication –Severe Side Effects

• The Preschool ADHD Treatment Study discovered that side effects of medication such as stunted growth, insomnia, anxiety and retardation may be greater in preschool students than that which is experienced by older children (Daley, Jones, Hutchings, & Thompson, 2009).

Behavioural Parent Training is determined as a First Choice Treatment

• Well-established evidence-based intervention –Extensive research literature demonstrates the effectiveness of various BPT programmes for parents of preschoolers and young children (Chronis et al. 2006; Conners, March, Frances, Wells, & Ross, 2001; Daley et al., 2009; Erhardt & Baker 1990; Hartman et al. 2003; Pelham, Wheeler, and Chronis, 1998; Pelham & Fabiano, 2008). Therefore, BPT meets Task Force criteria and is established as an empirically validated treatment for young children (Chambless et al., 1996; Chambless & Ollendick, 2001; Task Force, 1995).

• American Academy of Paediatrics (2011) recommends that evidence-based parent- and/or teacher-administered behaviour therapy should be provided as the first line of treatment. Medication should only be used if the behaviour interventions do not provide significant improvement and there is moderate-to- severe continuing disturbance in the child’s functioning

• The Academy of Medicine (AMS) and the Ministry of Health (MOH) have developed the clinical practice guidelines on Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) to provide doctors and patients in Singapore with evidence-based treatment for ADHD. According to the guidelines as listed below, BPT is recommended for parents of children diagnosed with ADHD (Fung et al., 2014).

  • Doctors should consider educating parents of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder about behaviour management strategies, or refer them to professionals who can do so [e.g. psychologists] (Grade A, Level 1++)

  • Parent training should be offered for parents of pre-school children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (Grade B, Level 1+)

  • Doctors should consider referring parents of children and adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder for parent training programmes offered within the community, particularly when negative parenting practices are identified (Grade B, Level 1+)