Summary – The Barkley model is an inhibition model that suggests the core issue in hyperactive children with ADHD is a deficit in behavioral inhibition.
This deficit negatively impacts four neuropsychological functions: working memory, self-regulation of affect, motivation and arousal, and internalization of speech and reconstitution.
These functions influence goal-directed behavior and also have effects on other neuropsychological systems. Working memory allows retention of information while performing tasks.
The deficit in self-regulation leads to difficulty controlling emotional responses, resulting in the expression of emotions in public.
The lack of internal speech maturity hampers adopting rule-governed behaviors and moral development.
The deficiency in behavioral analysis and synthesis hinders problem-solving ability and leads to less mature, symbolic, and creative play behavior.
This deficit also affects verbal fluency and the execution of non-verbal tasks requiring complex motor sequences.
Despite different models attempting to explain ADHD, the main symptoms have remained largely unchanged over time.
The four functions of the Barkley model
The four functions are
- working memory,
- self-regulation of affect,
- motivation, and arousal,
- internalization of speech, and reconstitution (behavioral analysis and synthesis).
ADHD is a disorder that affects the brain’s executive system, impacting attention, self-regulation, and behavior.
Children and teens with ADHD often face challenges in the classroom, such as behavioral issues, poor academic performance, and difficulty in peer relationships – this continues into adulthood.
To support their success, here are 10 rules for managing ADHD:
- Provide clear and concise instructions using visible and external methods.
- Represent time visually to help manage their work and time effectively.
- Deliver consequences swiftly and immediately to enhance their effectiveness.
- Offer more frequent feedback and consequences to address motivational deficits.
- Use higher magnitude consequences that have a greater impact on people with ADHD.
- Establish powerful reinforcement programs before implementing punishment.
- Rotate and change reinforcers frequently to prevent habituation or satiation.
- Maintain token systems with periodic changes to keep them effective.
- Anticipate transitions and prompt people with ADHD about upcoming rules and consequences.
- Hold them accountable for their behavior and goals.
It is important to continuously monitor and modify behavioral interventions over time for optimal effectiveness. Behavioral programs can work but may require adjustments to address common challenges like reward devaluation, inconsistent implementation, or a lack of functional analysis.