Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, ADHD, is one of the most common mental disorders that develop in children. The diagnosis of ADHD has become so common that between two and 10 percent of school-aged children have been labeled as having ADHD, with boys three times more likely than girls to develop and be diagnosed with the disorder (Barkley, 1998).

Simply telling the Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder child to “Clean the room” may not produce the desired results the parent expects. First and foremost, ADHD children do not choose their ADHD symptoms. Secondly, parents need to know that the ADHD symptoms are not produced by parenting flaws. Major components of treatment for children with ADHD include; parental support and education in behavioral training, appropriate school placement and medication (typically psycho stimulants).

Although many in the medical community believe in drug treatment for ADHD, there are many other health professionals, parents and educators alike that do not agree that a long-term course of medication is the answer to calming the symptoms. There is a well-known controversy about the frequency of the use of the drug Ritalin for treatment of behavior disorders such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and hyperactivity. Many parents and clinicians alike believe that a change in diet, family counseling, patience and acceptance produce more positive results than medication.

Regular communication among parents, teachers, and doctors benefits a child who has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Children with ADHD may also qualify for free services within public schools. Most children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder or other disabilities are eligible to receive special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

Best Regards!

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Filed under: The Teacher's Corner

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