Effects of a broad-spectrum behavior modification treatment program on children with refractory epileptic seizures

Epilepsia. 1985 Jul-Aug;26(4):303-9. doi: 10.1111/j.1528-1157.1985.tb05654.x.

Abstract

A group of 18 children with refractory epileptic seizures was divided into three groups--behavior modification treatment, attention control, and control groups--with the purpose of investigating the effects of a learning-based broad-spectrum treatment program superimposed on a regular medical treatment program. The design consisted of a 10-week baseline, 6-week intervention, and 10-week and 1-year follow-ups. A combination of number of seizures and seizure duration--termed "seizure index"--was used as a dependent measure. There was a significant reduction in seizure index only for those children receiving the behavior modification treatment, at both follow-ups. The results indicate that this behavioral treatment program may be of substantial help to children with epilepsy who are resistant to conventional drug therapy.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Attention
  • Behavior Therapy*
  • Child
  • Epilepsy / therapy*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male