Expanded Literature Review on ADHD and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in the Iranian Context

Abstract

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder that significantly impacts adolescents' academic performance, social interactions, emotional regulation, and overall quality of life. In Tehran, Iran, the growing concern surrounding ADHD underscores the necessity for culturally sensitive interventions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has emerged as a promising treatment, addressing maladaptive cognitive patterns and behaviors to improve self-regulation, executive functioning, and self-esteem. Research demonstrates that CBT enhances adolescents' coping strategies, emotional regulation, and interpersonal relationships, ultimately reducing ADHD symptoms. Additionally, CBT interventions involving parents have shown to improve parent-child relationships, reducing family stress and enhancing communication. Neuroimaging studies suggest that CBT may influence brain activity in regions responsible for attention and impulse control, though further research is needed in diverse cultural settings. While the effectiveness of CBT is well-documented globally, its application in Iran remains underexplored. The Iranian sociocultural context, including family dynamics and academic expectations, may shape treatment outcomes, necessitating culturally adapted CBT models. This review highlights the need for further research on CBT’s efficacy in Iranian adolescents with ADHD, particularly concerning self-esteem, parental relationships, and neurobiological outcomes, to develop more effective, contextually relevant interventions.