# Paying Attention to Physical Activity in ADHD

> **NIH NIH R33** · SEATTLE CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL · 2021 · $275,582

## Abstract

Abstract
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common childhood disorder and is associated with wide-
ranging impairments and negative health outcomes, including those that persist into adulthood and have
significant public health consequences. Children with ADHD are at increased risk for not achieving
recommended amounts of physical activity (PA) and engaging in high rates of sedentary behaviors like media
use. PA is found to improve cognitive functioning and decrease ADHD symptoms, but is usually not addressed
in standard treatment for ADHD. In this two-phase R21/R33 application, we propose to develop and pilot an
intervention to increase PA and healthy behaviors in children with ADHD using a family-focused treatment
model. In the R21 phase (n=30), we will pilot a group parent intervention based on the front-line behavioral
treatment for ADHD, parent Behavior Management Training (BMT), adapted to focus on increasing PA and
integrated with mobile Health technology (i.e., wearable PA trackers) and social media (Facebook) support to
increase engagement and longevity of effects. We will evaluate feasibility, acceptability, and effects of the
intervention to increase PA. In the R33 phase (n=80), we will conduct a small randomized trial comparing the
novel PA-focused intervention with standard BMT and examine effects on PA, other health behaviors, ADHD
symptoms and functioning, and family outcomes across a 1-year period. Findings will inform a future large-
scale evaluation of intervention effects on long-term health and functioning for children with ADHD.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10164724
- **Project number:** 5R33AT010041-04
- **Recipient organization:** SEATTLE CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL
- **Principal Investigator:** Pooja Sarin Tandon
- **Activity code:** R33 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2021
- **Award amount:** $275,582
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2018-05-17 → 2023-04-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10164724

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10164724, Paying Attention to Physical Activity in ADHD (5R33AT010041-04). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-26 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10164724. Licensed CC0.

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