ADHD

Frontal Lobe Functioning and Attention Deficiency Hyper Disorder

Frontal Lobe Functioning and Attention Deficiency Hyper Disorder

Introduction

Cognitive psychology is a study that deals with most of the complex mental processes like perception, attention, reasoning, problem solving and language. Any kind of a mental disorder can have its influence on the person suffering from it as well as the people around him and the environment in which he exists. ADHD is characterized by the activities of inattentiveness, minimized impulse control, excessive task relevant activity, time management problems, and limited self-talk and behavioural control. The disorder originates in childhood and manifests itself across the life span (Smith, et. al, 2004, pp.22).In this essay, i will discuss frontal lobe dysfunction as a causal account of the developmental disorder of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In order to critically evaluate the matter, a combination of recent and past studies of ADHD will be discussed highlighting Frontal Lobe Functioning, Executive Functioning and Neuropsychological finding of ADHD. This literature review will reflect arguments and findings of various scholars. Finally, the limitations of these literatures are discussed.

Frontal Lobe Functioning with ADHD

A major hypothesis underlying the ADHD is that its magnitude and presence reflect frontal lobe dysfunction. Tests conducted in the past to prove the correlation are inconsistent. More recent studies helped in clarifying previous contradictory researches by using clear criteria to understand ADHD. The study defined a control task, carefully selected tests and age range of participants. The Purdue Pegboard was implemented as a control measure that did not appraise frontal lobe functioning.

ADD disorders affect 3 to 5 percent of school going children (DSM-IV, American Psychiatric Association, 1994, pp.30). Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder's diagnosis is mostly unambiguous. It is mainly based on behavioural observations where an individual is expected to show various developmentally inappropriate signs of hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity. These signs and symptoms should be evaluated in early age of childhood in more than one setting, and show consistency for at least 6 months.

The etiology of Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is less clear. Originally, the disease was considered as childhood disorder; however, it is now clearly accepted as continuing in adulthood and adolescence, suggesting a more permanent cause for the problem (Brown & Borden, 1986, pp.194; Lambert et.al, 1987, pp.22). In order to understand the underlying cause, researchers have tried to understand the common features of childhood, adolescents and adults with Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder using longitudinal, as well as, cross-sectional studies. Klein and Mannuzza (1991), in their review of longitudinal studies, suggested that children who were previously diagnosed had higher rates of antisocial personality disorder and habit of substance abuse (pp.383).

In other follow-up studies of children diagnosed with ADHD, it was found that people with childhood diagnosis of Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder may also have a non-alcohol substance abuse disorder or personality disorder in comparison to control group (Mannuzza, Klein, Bessler, & Malloy, 1998, pp.493; Klein, Bessler, Malloy, & LaPadula, 1993, pp.565; Biederman, 1998, pp.4; Mannuzza). According to studies, proband group did not completed schooling ...