Introduction to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Margaret V. Austin, Ph.D., edited by C. E. Zupanick, Psy.D.image by David Goehring (lic)What is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder - ADHD?
There are very few people in the United States who have not heard about Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Sometimes it is called Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). It seems more and more people are diagnosed with this disorder. There are many reasons for this. We'll discuss those reasons in a moment. For now, let's begin by defining ADHD. What is it? Although we've heard the term Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), what exactly does it mean? Is it a normal variation of behavior: Or, is it disorder that significantly affects people's lives? A brief example may help clarify the term's meaning.
Adrian's story: A boy with ADHD
Adrian is a 7-year-old boy. He is making his second attempt to pass the first grade. He is halfway through the school year, but still hasn't improved very much. His teacher, Ms. Carter, taught Adrian in her classroom last year and now again this year. Ms. Carter is a young, enthusiastic teacher. She has actively worked with Adrian to improve his ability to pay attention in class. However, she is now asking for help because she has seen little progress for her efforts.
Adrian is an energetic boy who talks almost constantly. He talks over other children. He forgets to raise his hand. He interrupts his teachers during classroom lessons. He has trouble sitting in his seat and frequently wanders around the classroom. He is unable to read or to complete his math problems. These difficulties occur because he can't stay on task long enough to benefit from the lesson. His unruly behavior is taking a great deal of Ms. Carter's time. Meanwhile, his need for extra attention is interfering with other students' learning opportunities. Adrian is a kind boy, who often engages other children in a friendly manner. However, Ms. Carter has noticed the other children are becoming annoyed by his disruptive behavior. They have begun to avoid him. Ms. Carter is deeply concerned about Adrian. She knows that if these behaviors continue, Adrian's self-image will plummet as the other children reject him, and school failure continues.
Adrian's parents are similarly discouraged. They have two other children at home who don't get into trouble and make good grades at school. His parents work hard to provide a supportive environment for Adrian and try to help him with his homework. They have tried many different strategies. However, nothing seems to work. They are becoming increasingly frustrated and worried. They care deeply about Adrian and want him to succeed. Unfortunately, his out-of-control behavior and his inability to pay attention, have created a chaotic home life that is disruptive and unpleasant for the entire family. Both parents acknowledge that at times the situation seems hopeless. Although they feel protective of Adrian, they are also desperate to find help for him.
As a result of Ms. Carter's request, the school called a meeting to bring all the adults together to discuss Adrian's situation. They agreed to ask a psychologist to conduct an evaluation of Adrian and discussed the need for an Individual Education Plan. The psychologist met with Adrian, his parents, his teachers, and his physician. Adrian was evaluated in each of his typical environments. During this process, the psychologist worked diligently to obtain input from the adults involved with Adrian's education and care. The purpose of this thorough evaluation was to obtain as much information as possible from many different perspectives (caregivers, teachers, doctors, etc.). This enabled the psychologist to develop a diagnosis and a comprehensive treatment plan. Based on this evaluation, Adrian was diagnosed with ADHD. Then, the psychologist helped the adults work together to develop an individualized plan to meet Adrian's special needs. This type of plan is commonly called an Individual Educational Plan (IEP).
The IEP had many different elements. The parents took Adrian to his pediatrician. Adrian's doctor prescribed stimulant medication to help improve his attention skills. Adrian's parents were initially reluctant to use medication. However, the situation had deteriorated so much they were willing to give it a try. They also took a parenting class to learn behavior management skills. These new skills enabled them to create a more structured and consistent home environment. Furthermore, these skills allowed Adrian's parents to work more calmly with him. They learned to reward positive behaviors, while attempting to ignore (not reward) the negative ones.
Adrian did his part as well. He participated in group therapy with other kids who had similar problems. Adrian and the other children in his therapy group learned about ADHD and how it affects them. They also learned new skills. Some of these skills helped Adrian to develop greater self-regulation. Adrian also learned social skills so he could enjoy more rewarding relationships with his peers.
As part of the IEP, the psychologist developed a plan for Adrian's teachers. This plan helped to create a more structured classroom environment for Adrian. This structured approach made classroom expectations clear, and rewarded positive behavior. The IEP stipulated the teacher should be provided an additional classroom aide. The specially trained aide worked with Adrian to help him learn new skills while limiting behaviors that interfered with other children's learning experiences. The overall goal of the IEP was to provide Adrian the support he needed to develop important academic skills. It also helped him to use greater self-control at home, and in the classroom.
Working together, Adrian's team helped him to improve his behavior so he could succeed in school and enjoy rewarding relationships. It was a challenging process that required the commitment of many people. At first it was difficult. Nonetheless, with perseverance, the coordinated efforts of everyone involved allowed Adrian to gradually improve.
Adrian may continue to face challenges related to ADHD for most of his life. Nonetheless, his ability to function well in different environments enabled him to adopt a positive outlook. This increased his confidence in his ability to overcome challenges. The success of this case study highlights the importance of early diagnosis and treatment with a team approach. Early diagnosis is made possible by recognizing the signs and symptoms. This is covered in the next section.
Resources
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Articles
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Childhood ADHD Overview
- Introduction to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Signs & Symptoms of ADHD
- ADHD Signs and Symptoms: Attention Difficulties
- ADHD Signs and Symptoms: Hyperactivity
- ADHD Signs and Symptoms: Impulsivity
- Are There Different Types of ADHD?
- The Social, Educational, Financial & Occupational Impact of ADHD
- What are the Legal Rights of Caregivers and Their Children with ADHD (USA)?
- A Positive Spin: Is There Anything Good about ADHD?
- Signs of ADHD in Children at Home
- Signs of ADHD in Children at School
- Signs of ADHD in Children in Peer Relationships
- How Do I know if My Child Needs an ADHD Evaluation?
- What Should I Do If I Think My Child Might Have ADHD?
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ADHD Discoveries and Controversies
- ADHD: New and Exciting Brain Research
- ADHD: New and Exciting Brain Research - Part II
- Neurotransmitter Changes with ADHD
- Executive Functions
- Neurodiversity: Is ADHD a True Mental Disorder?
- ADHD Statistics
- Cultural and Gender Differences in Prevalence Rates
- Should Children with ADHD Be Medicated?
- New and Promising Areas of Research
- Causes of ADHD in Children
- ADHD or Another Condition?
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Diagnosis of ADHD in Children
- Who Can Diagnose ADHD?
- How Does ADHD Multi-Source Assessment Work?
- Assessment Instruments: Behavioral Checklists
- Assessment Instruments: Intelligence Tests
- Assessment Instruments: Achievement Tests (or Academic Tests)
- Assessment Instruments: Tests of Attention
- Assessment Instruments: Memory and Other Common Tests
- Step 2: Clinical Interviews
- Step 3: Physical Exam and Medical History
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ADHD Treatment in Children
- Multimodal ADHD Treatment Approach
- ADHD Medications
- Treating ADHD with Stimulant Drugs
- Commonly Prescribed ADHD Stimulant Medications
- Treating ADHD with Non-Stimulant Drugs
- Risks of ADHD Medication
- Risks of ADHD Medications - Part II
- Benefits of ADHD Medication
- Side Effects of ADHD Medications
- Medication Decisions and Medication Management
- How Long Should ADHD Medication Treatment Last
- Psycho-Education about ADHD and Its Management
- Family Therapy
- Individual and Cognitive Behavioral Psychotherapy for the Child with ADHD
- Skills Training
- Social Skills Training and Coaching
- Supports
- Alternative ADHD treatment: What Does NOT Work?
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Family and Personal Supports
- Effective Disciplinary Techniques
- Learn about Resources and Be Proactive
- Manage Stress, Self-Regulation & Provide Order
- Develop Routines, Organization and Expectations
- Communicate and Collaborate with Schools
- Express Confidence in Your Child's Abilities
- Help Children Improve Social Skills and Peer Relationships
- Avoid Homework Battles and Monitor Medication
- I Think I have ADHD. What should I do?
- I Think I Have ADHD - Part II
- Famous People with ADHD
- Adult ADHD Overview
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Diagnosis of Adult ADHD
- How is Adult ADHD Diagnosed?
- Diagnostic Challenge 1: Looking into the Past
- Diagnostic Challenge 2: ADHD versus Similar Disorders
- Diagnostic Challenge 2 - Part II
- Diagnostic Challenge 3: ADHD Symptoms
- Diagnostic Challenge 3 - Part II
- Diagnostic Challenge 4: A Concealed Disorder
- Specialized Tests and Tools
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Adult ADHD Treatment
- ADHD Medication Treatment
- Stimulant and Non-Stimulant Drugs for Adult ADHD
- Medication Timing, Dosage, Monitoring, and Duration of Treatment
- Weighing the Risks and Benefits of Adult ADHD Medications
- Psychotherapy for ADHD
- Coaching/Supported Employment for Adult ADHD
- Social Skills Training for Adult ADHD
- Psycho-Education and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- ADHD Resources and References
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Childhood ADHD Overview
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Questions and Answers
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- Why do I See Words and Numbers in my Mind...
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- I Can't function Normally Anymore, Can More Diagnoses issues Risk Survival?
- Bipolar Teen Son, ........
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- my 7 year old nephew
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- Making ADD Work
- Medicating Children
- Mind Fields
- New Look at ADHD: Inhibition, Time, and Self-Control
- Non-Drug Treatments for ADHD
- Overcoming ADHD
- Parenting Children With ADHD
- Reclaiming Our Children
- Rethinking ADHD
- Ritalin is Not the Answer Action Guide
- Ritalin Nation
- Running on Ritalin
- Should I Medicate My Child?
- Taking Charge of ADHD, Revised Edition
- The Explosive Child
- The Gift of Adult ADD
- The Little Monster
- The Science of ADHD
- Thumbsucker
- Treating ADHD and Comorbid Disorders
- What Would Joey Do?
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- Nutrition in Support of ADHD Treatment
- Behavioral Therapy: What it is and finding a therapist
- Project-Based Learning and ADHD
- Conditions May Mimic ADHD
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- Department of Education Guidance Broadens Understanding of 504 Rights for Kids with ADHD Part I
- Treating ADHD in the African American Community
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- Goal Setting and Keeping for the ADHD Brain
- Neurofeedback Treatment for ADHD
- ADHD in Preschoolers: What to Look For and How to Help
- FYI on ADHD Evaluations
- Teaching Grit, Perseverance and Frustration Tolerance to Students with ADHD
- Does my Child Have ADHD?
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- 5 Solutions for Common ADHD Social Struggles
- Is My High School Student Ready for College? (And Is My College Student Ready to Go Back?)
- Understanding and Applying the Science of Time Management
- ADHD Medication and College Students: Prevent Misuse, Abuse, and Diversion
- Improve Homework Time with Strategies That Work For ADHD
- Student Voices: What Really Matters to Young Adults With Learning and Attention Issues
- 5 Ways Nutrition can Impact ADHD Symptoms
- 3 Tips for Adjusting to a New Diagnosis of ADHD
- Creating the Best Learning Environment for Students with ADHD
- ADHD & Executive Functioning
- Department of Education Guidance Broadens Understanding of 504 Rights for Kids with ADHD Part II
- Ask The Expert: Neurofeedback Treatment for ADHD
- ADHD and Suicide Risk Factors
- The Choice is in the Details: Medication Options for ADHD
- Understanding and Supporting Young Adults with ADHD
- Helping Your Young Adult Become Independent
- Creating Structure and Routines for Children with ADHD
- When You and Your Child Have ADHD - Communication Skills to Resolve Conflict
- Guidance for Uncertain Times: Navigating Relationship Challenges
- Guidance for Uncertain Times: Mindful Parenting
- Couples with ADHD: Creating Caring Connection amid the Chaos
- Disclosure and Workplace Accommodations for Individuals With ADHD
- A Summer At Camp
- Self-Advocacy Tips For Teens With ADHD
- ADHD and Curbing Impulsive Spending to Help Your Relationship
- ADHD: Signs, Symptoms, Research
- ADHD & Risk of Adult Drug Use
- Health and Life Expectancy in ADHD
- Focus on ADHD
- Pediatrics: ADHD and Food Allergies
- ADHD: It's a Family Affair
- Does Your Child Have ADHD?
- ADHD in Children
- Living with ADHD
- Rise in ADHD Cases in Children
- Why is Dating Difficult When You Have ADHD
- Video Games, Screens, and ADHD A Potent Mix
- Ask the Expert Helping Children with ADHD LD Conquer Chronic Stress
- Ask the Expert: Mindfulness, Stress, & Emotion
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
- Ask the Expert Educator Edition: ADHD & Executive Functioning
- Ask the Expert - Academic Evaluations - What Parents Need to Know
- ADHD and Sibling Relationships
- Medication Treatment for ADHD
- Using Time Out
- Treating Childhood ADHD
- ADHD-friendly Summer Family FUNdamentals
- Preparing Older Teens for the Road Ahead
- Tips for Teachers: Tailoring homework to make a difference
- Your Active Preschooler: Could it be ADHD?
- Tips for Teachers: Creating a positive dialogue with parents of students with ADHD
- Helping Parents & Kids Understand the Social & Emotional Aspects of ADHD
- Social and Emotional Concerns of Children with ADHD: Strategies to Help
- Holiday Gifts for Children with ADHD
- Behavior Management and Combined Treatment for Children with ADHD
- Setting Realistic School Expectations for Students with ADHD
- On Their Own: Helping College Students with ADHD
- Children's Communication Challenges: Is it Attention, Language or Both?
- Out-of-School: Parenting During the Summer
- ADHD in the Workplace: Finding Success
- Emotions and Motivation in ADHD
- The Role of Medication in Managing Children's ADHD Symptoms
- Top Tips for Combating Stigma and Addressing Myths about ADHD
- Facts and Myths about ADHD
- What To Do If Your Child Has ADHD?
- How Common is ADHD?
- Children, Meds, and Heart Safety: A Tale of ADHD and Public Health
- ADHD & Your Child’s Transition to College
- Your Teen with ADHD: Challenges and Strategies for Success
- Ask the Expert - No more homework battles
- A Frontline to ADHD
- Understanding Girls with ADHD
- What is ADHD?
- What To Do When Your Child With ADHD is Bullied
- Stop the Chaos! Tips for Creating a Peaceful Household When Mom has ADHD
- Is It ADHD?
- Ask the Expert - What else can I do? Complementary approaches to ADHD treatment
- All in a row: Getting your kids with ADHD organized
- Your Student With ADHD Was Admitted to College, Now what?
- Evidence-based treatment for ADHD in young children
- Home life when Mom or Dad has ADHD: Succeeding with your family
- How does technology affect ADHD?
- Diagnosing ADHD
- Helping Your Child Successfully Handle Change
- Recognizing challenging behaviors in young children: Could it be ADHD?
- Classroom Managment Supports for ADHD Behaviors in Preschool Settings
- Getting through to your teenager with ADHD
- What Everyone Should Know about ADHD
- Make Learning Exciting: Apps for Executive Functioning
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