Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Abstract

In this study we try to explore the concept of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in a holistic context. The main focus of the research is on Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and its relation with the treatment of children. The research also analyzes many aspects of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder and tries to gauge its effect on the treatment interventions.

Table of Contents

Abstract1

Introduction3

Description and Analysis4

Treatment Interventions4

Pharmacological4

Psychosocial6

Conclusion8

Works Cited9

Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Introduction

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a broad term that is used to describe a cluster of symptoms that comprise a neurodevelopment disorder in which the child struggles to control impulses, manage behavior, and listen to directions. It is noted that it is not considered a disorder that can be directly attributed to other medical or psychiatric conditions, and it tends to cause impairment in social and academic functioning, especially if untreated. ADHD is included in this encyclopedia because it is one of the most commonly occurring pediatric disorders and likely to be treated by a primary care provider. It can also be treated in variety settings including child guidance clinics and other outpatient mental health treatment environments. Treatment may include medication management, psychosocial interventions, or a combination of both that involves parental figures, other family members, and other individuals involved with the child. These individuals can also include school personnel, community activity leaders, and child care providers. ADHD, in some variant of symptoms, continues into adulthood and influences functioning throughout the life span.

The core symptoms of ADHD include inattention, which usually persists into adulthood; hyperactivity, which tends to decrease around ages 9 to 11 years; and impulsivity, which may begin to remit from around ages 12 to 14 years. ADHD is rarely a simple disorder and needs to be assessed carefully before treatment begins.

Description and Analysis

Research has shown that ADHD is a brain-based disorder. However, it is complicated by a variety of other issues and comorbidity disorders that can cloud the practitioner's ability to make a clear diagnosis and treatment plan. Over the life span, ADHD can move from behavior hyperactivity to disruptive behavior, learning problems, poor social skills, and oppositional defiant behaviors and in adolescence, to school difficulties, substance abuse, mood and conduct disorders, and complex learning disabilities. Untreated, ADHD predisposes youth to substance use, involvement in the juvenile justice system, and poor adult functioning (Biederman, 1215).

Non genetic risk factors have also been identified as contributing to ADHD. These include traumatic brain injury, low birth weight and traumatic perinatal events, maternal smoking during pregnancy, and environmental deprivation in infancy. Some researchers suggest that all of these issues combine with the genetic risks to produce the disorder in a child. ADHD is frequently comorbidity with other psychiatric conditions. Comorbidity learning and language disorders can include receptive and expressive language disorders, poor motor control, difficulty with math skills, and language processing deficits. All of these psychiatric and academic comorbidities require an intensive intervention strategy carefully aimed at improved functioning at home and school through symptom change.

Treatment Interventions

Pharmacological

Treating this disorder with stimulant medication began in the ...