Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

About the Disorder:

• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is defined as a disability in which children consistently show one or more of the following characteristics over time: (1) inattention (2) hyperactivity (3) impulsivity. Symptoms begin before age 7 years and can cause serious difficulties in home, school or work life. ADHD can be managed through behavioral or medical interventions, or a combination of the two. The number of children diagnosed with ADHD has increased in recent years, and occurs as much as four to nine times more in boys than in girls. When it comes to school work, children who have ADHD may know what to do, but they are not always able to complete their tasks because they are unable to focus, are impulsive, or are easily distracted. For example, children with ADHD often cannot sit still or pay attention in school. ADHD is commonly treated with medications, such as Ritalin. Ritalin is a stimulant drug, and is administered to roughly 85 to 90 percent of children diagnosed with ADHD.
• ADHD is a very complex neurobiochemical disorder. As of today, researchers do not know what causes ADHD, but after some recent research, they are getting closer to finding out. In the people that have the disorder, studies have shown that certain areas of the brain have less activity and blood flow, and that certain brain structures are slightly smaller. These areas are the prefrontal cortex, the basal ganglia, and the cerebellum. These areas are known to inhibit behavior, sustain attention, and control mood. Evidence also suggests that chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters, play a part in ADHD behavior. The neurotransmitters that are most involved in ADHD behavior are dopamine and norepinephrine.
• ADHD is a disorder that every adult, especially parents, should be aware of. Even though signs are usually present during preschool years, in the form of increased activity levels and low attention spans, ADHD often goes undetected until elementary school. According to the text book, Children, by John W. Santrock, the increased academic and social demands of formal schooling and the higher standards for behavior control tend to highlight the problems of children with ADHD.
• For more information about ADHD, please visit the links below.

Informational Links:

National Institute of Mental Health Website
Attention Deficit Disorder Association Website
Internet Mental Health Website about ADHD
ADHD in Depth
Article about ADHD
Journal article about Stimulant medication for ADHD treatment
Journal article about ADHD research
Journal article about ADHD and prison inmates

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