Methylphenidate is an effective treatment for children with a hyperactivity disorder. While beneficial effects of the drug on attentional functions and motor behaviour have been shown, little is known about the impact of treatment with methylphenidate on writing. Using a digitising tablet, we examined the writing performance of hyperactive children.
The handwriting of 14 hyperactive children was examined both on the usual methylphenidate treatment and following withdrawal of the drug. In order to record handwriting movements, a digitising tablet with a specific pen was used. The position of the pen on the tablet was localised with an accuracy of 0.2 mm. Velocity and acceleration of the handwriting movements were measured with a personal computer continuously during writing. Furthermore, attentional functions were measured using computerised reaction time tasks.
Statistical comparison of writing movements of children on and off methylphenidate revealed that the medication resulted in a reduced automation of handwriting. However, handwriting of children on methylphenidate became neater. Attentional functions were not affected by treatment.
The improvement in hyperactive behaviour was associated with better legibility and greater neatness of handwriting. The intention to write neatly may interfere with automated writing processes.
Poster in der Gruppe Handlung und Motorik, Mittwoch, 31. März 1999, 17:00-19:00, Foyer 2. Stock
