A Procedure for Assessing the Effects of Methlyphenidate on Hyperactive Children in Public School Settings

Describes a school-based medication evaluation (SBME) procedure that employs direct observations of child behavior. Numerous survey studies of hyperactive children receiving stimulant medication during the past 20 years have found procedures for evaluating drug response to be wanting. One of the major problems in this area is the lack of precision in dosage selection. A case study is presented to illustrate the strengths of the SBME. Limitations of the SBME are addressed as are alternative models for assessing drug effects.