Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) also known as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity
Disorder (ADHD) is a neurobehavioral disorder affecting approximately
3% to 5% of all American children.
The
impact of ADD and ADHD
is an interference with the child's capability to maintain a span
of attention, or to focus on a task. Some children with this disorder
may also be unable to control sudden, impulsive behavior.
Symptoms of ADD / ADHD
- Difficulty
or failure to listen to instructions
- Difficulty
or inability to organize themselves or their schoolwork
- Fidgeting,
including activity in the hands and feet
- Talking
too much
- Inability
to complete projects - leaving them before they're done
- Chores
left unfinished
- Unfinished
homework
- Trouble
paying attention to details that are both minor, or important.
While
there is no actual "cure" for attention deficit disorder,
and children seldom outgrow it, many do find different
adaptive ways in which they can accommodate their ADD or ADHD
as they mature. They will still have the same impulses, but they
learn to recognize, understand, and live with them.
ADD / ADHD Treatment
Medications
Treatment
for ADD and ADHD can be suggested by a doctor, if it is felt
to be necessary. This usually includes medications such as:
methylphenidate
(Ritalin)
dextroamphetamine
(Dexedrine)
pemoline
(Cylert),
These
medications are actually stimulants, though they decrease the
occurrence of the impulsivity and hyperactivity, while increasing
the ability to pay attention, in those who suffer from these disorders.
It
is, however, commonly agreed upon that treatment for Childhood
ADD and ADHD should not be exclusively medication, but should include
individual tutoring, parent education (to address discipline and
limit-setting), and individual or group behavioral therapy (or
both) for the child. These will help the child to develop the ability
to deal with the sensation of attention deficit disorder so that
he or she will be able to cope with it later in life.
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