Play Therapy and Behavioral Outcomes: A Psychology Study on Children with ADHD

The present study investigates the impact of structured play therapy on behavioral outcomes among children diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Bihar, India. A total of 62 children, aged 6–12 years, were randomly selected from Patna city (urban) and Nalanda district (rural). Employing a mixed-methods, cross-sectional design, both quantitative tools, such as the Conners’ Parent Rating Scale–Revised (CPRS-R) and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), and qualitative interviews with parents and teachers were utilized. Children participated in up to ten sessions of structured play therapy conducted in clinics, schools, or through online modalities. Results revealed significant improvements in inattention, hyperactivity, and overall behavioral difficulties, alongside a marked increase in prosocial behavior. Qualitative findings further highlighted enhanced self-regulation, reduced impulsivity, improved peer interactions, and greater compliance with instructions. Teacher and parent reports substantiated these improvements, with minimal adverse effects reported, primarily related to fatigue and logistical challenges. The findings suggest that play therapy offers a culturally adaptable, low-cost, and effective non-pharmacological intervention for ADHD, particularly in resource-constrained rural settings. This study contributes to the growing body of evidence supporting play therapy as a viable adjunct to conventional treatment for children with ADHD.