Educational reference
Treatment overview
Behavioural parent training refers to structured programmes that work with parents and carers rather than directly with the child, and it is commonly recommended before medication is considered for younger children.
The premise is practical. Adults who are present daily are in the best position to shape routines, expectations and responses, so the programme teaches specific approaches: clear and achievable instructions, consistent and immediate responses to behaviour, predictable routines, and attention directed towards behaviour to be encouraged rather than only to difficulty.
Programmes are typically delivered over a set number of sessions, individually or in groups, and involve practice between sessions.
The framing matters. These programmes exist because behavioural approaches are effective, not because parenting caused the condition. ADHD is not caused by parenting, and a programme aimed at parents can be misread as implying otherwise.
Availability and format vary considerably by country and locality. What is appropriate for a particular family is decided with a qualified health professional.