Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), sometimes called attention deficit disorder (ADD), represents a set of chronic conditions that involves hyperactivity, difficulty paying attention and a tendency to act impulsively, according to the American Psychiatric Association (APA).
ADHD develops in childhood, affecting the adolescence and adulthood of a patient’s life in some cases.The most common symptoms are the inability to pay attention, inability to sit still or follow directions, hyperactivity and a tendency to engage in impulsive acts. It also causes learning disorders, such as problems with writing, math or reading(dyslexia), difficulty establishing friendships.
Childrens with ADHD have a low self esteem and poor organizational skills , appearing to be lethargic, forgetful and easily distracted, shy, anxious or constantly daydreaming.
The main problem regarding the hyperactive/ impulsive ADHD is the difficulty of controlling the behavior, followed by an antisocial conduct and an aggressive or oppositional behavior.The patients seem to be restless, impulsive, with inappropriate levels of distractibility;
A hyperactive child will not be able to pay attention, having a hard time to keep his mind focused on a certain task.Acting impulsively, he won’t consider the consequences of his actions, he will wiggle and move restlessly at his desks, touching things, disturbing the other children and the teacher, make unnecessary noise and talk excessively (Encarta 98 Encyclopedia).
ADHD is one of the main causes responsible for the child’s featured problems: numerous educational, developmental and social challenges, Social functioning and academic performance representing a major concern.
The causes of ADHD is still unknown. One of the most common theories is about the changes developed in the brain structure, delaying its normal evolution, because of heredity and exposure to certain environmental chemicals.The diagnostic includes various tests conceived by psychiatrists, psychologists, neurologists or clinical social workers in order to find from the parents, teachers and other adults connected with the child useful information regarding his behaviour.ADHD is non-discriminating.
The treatment involves medications using psychostimulant drugs, psychotherapy and special learning sessions with the parents in order to help their children meet the challenges presented by ADHD.
Useful resources:
Alexander-Roberts, Colleen. The ADHD Parenting Handbook. Dallas, Texas
American Family Physician, Jul. 1997, Vol. 56, Issue 1: 155.
Microsoft Encarta 98 Encyclopedia. CD-ROM.Microsoft Corporation, 1997.
U.S. National Institutes of Health and National Institute of Mental Health. Attention Deficit
Hyperactivity Disorder. US DEPT HHS PUBL Natl Inst Health, Sep. 1994.
Department of Health and Human Services Publications.
Leave Your Comments