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Culturally Adapted 26-Session Group CBT for Adult ADHD in Indian Universities: A Large-Scale Quasi-Experimental Study from Greater Noida

Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Study design: Clinical Trial
Abstract: Background: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) persisting into adulthood is associated with significant academic and functional impairment among university students in India. However, culturally adapted, scalable psychological interventions remain limited.Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of a culturally adapted 26-session group CBT compared to a supportive academic group for university students with ADHD.Methods: IEC-approved study (Ref: IEC/IILMU/PSYCH/2026/01, dated 15 March 2026) included 674 university students (21-26 years) meeting DSM-5-TR criteria from Greater Noida. Allocated to Group CBT (n=337) and Supportive Academic Group (n=337) based on counselling centre availability. Primary outcome: CAARS. Secondary outcomes: NIMHANS Battery. Assessments at baseline, post-intervention (12 weeks) and 3-month follow-up. Intent-to-treat analysis with LMM, MLE. Written informed consent obtained.Results: LMM revealed significant Group × Time interactions for all outcomes. CBT showed greater reductions in inattention [F(2,1344)=268.42, p<.001, d=2.31, 95% CI 2.12-2.50, 41.6% reduction] and hyperactivity-impulsivity [F(2,1344)=189.76, p<.001, d=1.58] and improvements in executive function [F(2,1344)=312.55, p<.001, d=1.18, 21.0% increase]. Gains maintained at 3-month follow-up. Mean attendance 89.3%, fidelity 92%, no adverse events.Conclusions: Culturally adapted group CBT is effective, feasible and scalable for Indian university students with ADHD and may be implemented in university counselling settings. Keywords: ADHD, group CBT, executive function, university students, India, culturally adapted
DOI: 10.31234/osf.io/9seub_v1
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7213516383
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