Review
"Dr. Barkley gifts us all with this fourth edition of his classic work. You will find tons of new information--grounded in the most recent science--and the advice of one of the most experienced, thoughtful, and kind professionals we have. This book is brimming with wisdom that parents can put to use every day. Bravo, and thank you, Dr. Barkley!"--Edward M. Hallowell, MD, coauthor of Driven to Distraction
"This book woke me up, gave me a good cry, consoled me, then helped me plan for the future. Dr. Barkley gave me a better understanding of exactly how and why ADHD has been such a serious problem for my daughter. The book is written so you can easily digest it and follow the step-by-step advice to advocate for your child. It is candid and empathic. This book is my 'go to'--I refer to it daily and I will be giving copies to my family members and school counselors. Parents need this book!"--Kirsten W., Detroit
"This book is packed with useful information that makes it a go-to resource for the parents and kids I see in my clinical practice. It is difficult to imagine any question a parent might have about ADHD and its treatment that is not addressed here. The book provides how-to guidance in a straightforward, step-by-step format--including helpful tips for getting a thorough evaluation, dealing with behavior challenges, working with schools and teachers, managing medications, and navigating the teen years."--Peg Dawson, EdD, coauthor of Smart but Scattered
"As the mother of a 16-year-old with ADHD and as a speech–language pathologist working with children of all ages, I am beyond glad this book came my way! It is the most thorough and practical book I have ever read on ADHD. This book has helped me gain so much insight into the disorder, along with practical methods for tackling some of the most difficult and puzzling aspects of it. Dr. Barkley has given me immediate things I can do to improve my son’s life, and guidance I can provide to the parents of children I work with. I love the suggestions for structuring the home–school relationship to help kids reach their potential, and the suggestions for taking care of yourself as a parent. This is an incredible resource for families."--Jennie M., Austin
"Barkley has provided a scientifically grounded, up-to-date resource for parents. Readers will discover critical insights and specific guidance--from managing behavioral, social, emotional, academic, and health concerns, to navigating difficult conversations with children, teens, and teachers. The book is informed by Barkley's clinical experience and decades of research."--Kelly B. Cartwright, PhD, Professor of Psychology, Neuroscience, and Teacher Preparation, Christopher Newport University
"This material is specific, practical, widely applicable, and supported by both clinical and research experience. From the pediatric therapist's perspective, this book has a great deal to offer....An outstanding achievement." (on the first edition) ― Physical and Occupational Therapy in Pediatrics Published On: 1997-01-01
"If any professional knows about ADHD, it is Russell A. Barkley....All in all, this is a splendid book." (on the first edition) ― Child and Family Behavior Therapy
"I certainly plan to recommend this book to parents….It empowers parents to take charge of the life of their child with ADHD rather than feel constantly distressed and overwhelmed by the special needs of these unique children." (on the first edition) ― Canadian Medical Association Journal Published On: 1996-11-15
"This is not just another book. This is a great book....Although aimed at parents, it has something for everyone involved with ADHD kids: teachers, psychologists, doctors, and family. I am not going to lend this book to parents (although I will show it to them) because they need to buy it so they have it on hand to read and reread." (on the first edition) ― Pediatric News
"Addresses the common questions and concerns of puzzled parents....Its overall theme is positive and hopeful and will be welcomed by many families." (on the first edition) ― Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
"This book features pioneering research that provides new insight into preventing ADHD from becoming a major obstacle in a child's (and parent's) life....Parents will appreciate having this book on hand, and teachers will want a copy to show parents who are ready for a resource." (on the first edition) ― Intervention in School and Clinic Published On: 1997-01-01
"An excellent and readable book that will empower parents of children with ADHD." (on the first edition) ― NAMI Advocate Published On: 1996-07-31
"This book is unique in its up-to-date and clear presentation of the scientific underpinnings of the disorder and the pragmatic, empirically based approach to intervention that it encourages. It is also very well organized and readable; it is probably the best available resource of this type." (on the first edition) ― Doody's Health Sciences Book Review
"I am always looking for the best book, the right book or the latest book. Let me tell you about one: Russell A. Barkley, PhD's, Taking Charge of ADHD." (on the revised edition) ― Psychiatric Times Published On: 2002-04-01
"An excellent resource for parents, clinicians, and teachers." (on the first edition) ― Child Psychology and Psychiatry Review Published On: 1997-01-01
"Rich in anecdote and warm in understanding of the human experience of ADHD, this book should be a must for most parents....Dr. Barkley has produced a book that will be added to the list of practical, reasoned, well thought out and helpful resources for parents who are looking for it all in one place." (on the revised edition) ― Canadian Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Review Published On: 2003-11-03
About the Author
Russell A. Barkley, PhD, ABPP, ABCN, before retiring in 2021, served on the faculties of the University of Massachusetts Medical Center, the Medical University of South Carolina, and Virginia Commonwealth University. Dr. Barkley has worked with children, adolescents, and families since the 1970s and is the author of numerous bestselling books for both professionals and the public, including Taking Charge of ADHD and Your Defiant Child. He has also published six assessment scales and more than 300 scientific articles and book chapters on attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, executive functioning, and childhood defiance. A frequent conference presenter and speaker who is widely cited in the national media, Dr. Barkley is past president of the Section on Clinical Child Psychology (the former Division 12) of the American Psychological Association (APA), and of the International Society for Research in Child and Adolescent Psychopathology. He is a recipient of awards from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the APA, among other honors. His website is www.russellbarkley.org.
