AttentionDeficit

HyperactivityDisorder

By: Rachel Tschudy

A Brief OverviewBackground

Types of ADHD

Causes

Signs and Symptoms

Suspecting ADHD

Diagnosis Tests

Positive Effects

Treatment

Rights of Students in Schools

How to Cope with ADHD

Further Information

Works Cited

Background

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a family of chronic neurobiological disorders . These disorders interfere with individuals’ ability to accomplish tasks, regulate their activity, and slow down their behaviors in ways that are appropriate to their circumstances and age.

Three Types of ADHD:1. Combined Type – Individual displays both

inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive symptoms.

2. Predominantly Inattentive Type - Symptoms are primarily related to inattention. Individual does not display significant hyperactive/impulsive behaviors.

3. Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type – Symptoms are primarily related to hyperactivity and impulsivity. Individual does not display significant attention problems.

Causes of ADHDFor the most part, ADHD is caused by one or more of the following:

•Genetic Factors•Biological Factors•Environmental Factors

Signs and SymptomsAlways on the goTalks excessivelyOften has difficulty

waiting their turnFrequently fidgeting

or squirming aroundHabitually leaves his

or her seat when remaining seated is expected

May blurt out the answer to a question before it is finished being asked

Often runs/climbs when not necessarily appropriate

Interrupts a lot or intrudes on others’ conversations

May feel restless, especially if an adolescent

ContinuedOften forgetfulAvoids tasks that

require a lot of mental effort (like homework)

Has trouble following through on instructions

Frequently makes careless mistakes or fails to pay close attention to details in schoolwork

Seems to not listen even when spoken to directly

Regularly has problems organizing tasks

Often loses needed items (like books or tools)

Can be easily distractedOften has difficulty

paying attention during tasks or play

When to suspect ADHD?

You may want to contact a doctor if you notice your child’s behavior is consistently hyperactive, impulsive and:•Occurs in more than 1 setting (typically home and school)•Causes problems in relationships with others•Lasts longer than 6 months•Disrupts daily activities on a regular basis (such as school or play)

Diagnosis TestsThere is no set test for ADHD but the doctor may do these things to test for the disorder:

•Physical examination•Get patient and family history•Review of patient’s social, academic, and emotional functioning and developmental level•Assessment of learning disabilities, if applicable

Positive Effects of ADHDEven though there are several challenges faced by people with ADHD, there are also many positive effects associated with the disorder:

Creativity – Children with ADHD can be extremely creative and imaginative. They can become fantastic problem solvers and artists.

Flexibility – Children become more flexible to multiple ideas due to the fact that they are able to consider many options at once.

Enthusiasm and spontaneity – Children with ADHD are interested in a variety of things and have lively personalities.

Energy and drive – When kids with ADHD are motivated to do something, it can be difficult to get them off task, especially when the activity is hands on or interactive.

Treatment

•Medications•Behavioral Treatment•Stimulant Medications•Nonstimulant Medications•Lifestyle Changes

Rights In SchoolReduced length of homework

assignmentsAllowed extra time on testsUse of tape recordersComputer-aided instructionsProviding specific assistance with

planning skillsUsing behavioral management

techniques in the classroomSimplifying instructions on assignments

Coping with ADHD•Encourage acceptable outlets for hyperactivity•Provide a place of work with reduced distraction•Use background stimulation such as faint music•Avoid overstimulating or boring situations•Supply aids for organization such as “to do lists”•Find a “quiet place” to study and do work•Write things down! Take notes.

Further InformationFor further information on ADHD

and your child, please visit http://www.helpforadd.com/educational-rights/ and enter your email in the “parents” block.

This will allow you to be sent information and research done on ADHD.

Works Citedhttp://www.pharmacytimes.com/issue/pharma

cy/2009/2009-06/RxfocusADHD-0609http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/adhd/DS00

275/DSECTION=symptomshttp://www.helpguide.org/mental/adhd_add_si

gns_symptoms.htmhttp://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/guide/adhd

-treatment-carehttp://www.helpforadd.com/educational-right

s/http://ziemang.com/pnm_articles/9906adhd.h

tmhttp://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/guide/adhd

-tests-making-assessment