Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

By Lakisha Mitchell

Nash Community College
Learning with Behavior Disorders

Catherine Jancso
EDU 222

10-22-11

Abstract

This paper explores the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a condition that can affect children and adults. ADHD in children can cause trouble with focus, patience, and over activity. ADHD is the most common childhood disorder and usually appear early in life often between the ages of 3 and 6. Children that are diagnosed with ADHD usually have problems at home, school and in their social life.
Symptoms should also be severe enough to cause significant difficulties in several settings, including home, school, and in relationships with peers. Behaviors that occur when there has been a sudden life change such as divorce, death in family, anxiety, and depression can appear to be ADHD.

Setting goals is a key step in creating a total treatment plan to help your child. A doctor can suggest many treatment options including medication, and behavior therapy as part of a total treatment plan. A class of drugs called psycho stimulant is the medication used to treat the symptoms of ADHD. The medication includes Ritalin, Concerta, and Adderall which help children focus their thoughts and ignore distractions. Behavioral treatment and social skills training for children with ADHD involves adjusting the environment to promote more successful social interactions.

Appropriate Education of the child’s family is an essential component of any treatment which may encompass special education programs, psychological interventions and drug treatment. Studies show that long-term treatment with a combination of medication and behavioral therapy is far superior to just medication treatment. Parent could help manage their child’s ADHD by working with the child, communicate with the teacher and school to implement strategies for learning inside and out the classroom. Parents could also organize child’s belongings to make them easier to find, minimize