The Effect of Dohsa-hou on Reducing Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity in 6- to 12-Year-Old Children and Adolescents

OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of Dohsa-hou relaxation on reducing attention deficit and hyperactivity. METHODS Eighty children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) aged 6–12 years were selected by the block randomization method and assigned to either an experimental group or a control group. The data collection tools included a demographic questionnaire, Conners’ parent rating scale and Conners’ (CPRS-RS) child attention deficit index. RESULTS The mean score of the children’s hyperactivity and attention deficit decreased after the intervention, which was statistically significant (p < 0.001). The children’s hyperactivity scores were significantly different before and after the intervention in the two groups: a greater reduction was observed in the intervention group than in the control group. Although hyperactivity decreased in both groups, it was more pronounced in the intervention group (p < 0.001). The comparison of children’s attention deficit scores before and after the intervention in the two groups also showed that Dohsa-hou treatment led to a more significant decrease in the scores of the intervention group (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION Dohsa-hou exercises may lead to reduced hyperactivity and attention deficit in most children with ADHD.