The Effect Paintball Game on Motor Performance, Neuropsychological and Behavioral Features Children with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Abstract

Objective: Poor motor skill performance can place children with ADHD at risk of developing a weak self-concept, high anxiety levels, and a poor social function. The purpose of this study is to explore the effects of a moderate- to high-intensity paintball game program on fitness, cognitive functions, and ADHD-related behavior in children with ADHD. Method: A total of 21 participants (age in years: M = 9.1, SD = 1.1, ranging from 7 to 12) took part in the study. Measuring tools were included Fitness and Motor Tests Measures, Behavioral Measures, Neuropsychological Measures. Fitness level, motor skills, behaviors, and cognitive functions are assessed by standardized tests before and after a 10-week training or control period Results: Findings show that participation in a paintball game program (improves muscular capacities, motor skills, behavior reports by parents and teachers, and level of information processing. Posttest analysis revealed that with the exception of rule breaking behaviors, a tendency for improvements was reported by the teachers in the experimental group for all scales, but all differences did not reach statistical significance. Conclusion: Structured paintball game program may have clinical relevance in the functional adaptation of children with ADHD. This supports the need for further research in the area of physical activity with this population