GENETIC FACTORS AND IN UTERO EXPERIENCES

Genetic Factors And In Utero Experiences

Genetic Factors And In Utero Experiences

Approximately 4 percent of the population within the United States has ADHD. (NIMH) About one-half to two-thirds of the children who are diagnosed will continue to have some difficulties with ADHD during their adulthood.(NIMH) According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders there are three different types of ADHD; ADHD combined type, ADHD predominantly Innatentive type, and ADHD Hyperactive Impulsive type (APA 87). ADHD is characterized by the main features of Inattention, hyperactivity, and Impulsivity.(NIMH). In addition, a cluster of associated characteristics may include disorganization, poor peer/sibling relations, aggressive behavior, poor self concept/self esteem, sensation-seeking behavior, daydreaming, poor coordination, memory problems, persistent obsessive thinking, and inconsistency, the hallmark characteristic(NIMH) It occurs in both children and adults, and interferes with the persons' ability to function normally in their day-to-day activities, such as work, school, and home.(APA 85)

The most prevalent type of ADHD is predominantly combined ADHD(NIMH). People with predominantly combined type have combined characteristics of hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention.(APA 87) An example of hyperactivity is roaming around when they should be seated and the tendency to feel intensely restless(APA 86). People who tend not to think before they speak or act can be impulsive. Blurting out comments that are inappropriate or at inappropriate times is a problem many school age children with ADHD have.(NIMH) People with this type of ADHD may have some characteristics of hyperactivity and impulsivity but not as severely as in the Hyperactive Impulsive ADHD(APA 87). I understand this type of ADHD the best because I was diagnosed with it when I was 10 years old. The majority of my problems with ADHD are from the aspect of inattention, I have difficulty keeping my mind on one thing and get bored ...