...disorder (ADHD) is a brain disorder marked by an ongoing pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development. Merriam Webster defines medication as a substance used for medical treatment, especially a medicine or drug. Consequently psychotropic medication is defined as any medication capable of affecting the mind, emotions, and behavior. Some medications such as lithium, which may be used to treat depression, are psychotropic. Also called a psychodynamic medication. When ADHD and medication are paired together the results can be amazing. However for every action there is a reaction. This reaction can sometimes overshadow the good that has been done. The trend of hidden dangers of ADHD medication, the effects of taking ADHD medication and making the right choices for your family. The hidden dangers of taking ADHD medication are discussed very often. The Harvard Medical School has stated that “Medications — chiefly the stimulants dextroamphetamine and methylphenidate — are the only proven treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), with its symptoms of distractibility, impulsiveness, and hyperactivity. But the benefits of stimulants last only as long as patients continue to take them, and worries about the risks of long-term use are again in the news (Harvard Medical School, Harvard Health Publications, para 1). There have been countless studies on the effects of taking stimulants to treat ADHD. These studies...
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...While some factors such as heritability cannot be avoided, many environmental factors associated with ADHD liked disorganized attachment between the infant and caregiver are preventable. Many associated risk factors are in fact found in segments of the population that are socially disadvantaged showing an increased prevalence of the disorder among those of lower socioeconomic status. Dr. Joel Nigg, a professor at the Department of Psychiatry at the Oregon Health and Science University cites a long list of preventable risk factors that may influence ADHD including, “maternal psychological stress, poor prenatal care, poor prenatal nutrition, reduced or lack of breastfeeding, poor childcare, low quality schools and housing, increased family stress,...
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...attempted to address several issues regarding antipsychotic drugs used to treat school-aged children with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The distribution of these ADHD medications have steadily increased over the years, which has, on one hand, presented a possible solution to the escalating diagnosis of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, and on the latter, brought into question the ethics and effectiveness of these medications. Health officials, parents, and the children themselves struggle to come to an agreement when deciding whether or not medication is the best solution. The Debate Over Medicating Children with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder In the spring of 2004, Jacqueline A. Sparks, an associate professor of family therapy at the University of Rhode Island, and Barry L. Duncan, a cofounder of the Institute for the Study of Therapeutic Change, investigated the ethics and effectiveness behind the distribution of ADHD medications as a modern treatment method for children with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Even though, “appropriate identification and treatment of symptoms for psychiatric illnesses (such as ADHD) during childhood and adolescence is critical” (ScienceDaily). Sparks and Duncan note that, “ADHD is arguably the most controversial topic in recent mental health history. The ADHD diagnosis is not defined by a biological marker (Leo & Cohen, 33), but is rather subjective and not easily distinguished from the everyday behavior...
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...ADHD: Multimodal Approach Lynnette Walker University of North Florida Abstract This paper reviews Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), the many effects the disorder has on an individual, and the many therapy options available. A brief description of the disorder is given, as well as the core symptoms, and the functional problems that result from it. Each therapy option is then explained in detail and the benefits of each given. Finally, a brief look at the advantages of using multiple therapy techniques in a multimodal approach and the needs for future research. ADHD: Multimodal Approach ADHD (Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is a common disorder that typically presents in early childhood and often continues into adulthood. It is a chronic disorder that has no cure. There are two components of ADHD, attention deficit and hyperactivity. The attention deficit component refers to the lack of attention or difficulty in focusing on activities for extended periods of time, as well as being easily distracted. The hyperactivity component refers to impulsivity, restlessness, fidgeting, and often loud behavior. In order to be diagnosed with ADHD, a patient must exhibit a number of these behaviors that are atypical to children of the same age for at least six months, symptoms having been present before the age of 7, be present in more than one environment, and show impairment in social and academic progress (Monastra, 2008). There are many functional deficiencies...
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...ADHD PSYCH 575 November 5, 2012 Dr. Rex Philpot PhD. ADHD During, childhood one of the most common neuropsychological and behavioral disorders affecting behaviors emerges in children and adults pertains to ADHD (American Psychiatric Association, 1994, pp. 64-65). Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder disrupts the process of learning in children as well as others in the classroom, home, and the workplace. Often, children demonstrating these behaviors are impetuous and reckless thereby disruptive in activities at home, school, and play whereby hindering the child’s or adult’s abilities to learn and perform. This paper will provide an explication of ADHD and the common symptoms along with the rates of managing, and reducing the symptoms implemented in three treatments in methods selected in treating the disorder. Furthermore, an analysis will explicate the neurophysiological underpinnings, and contemporary attitudes of the selected interventions video games, family therapy, and Ritalin. Cause and characteristics of ADHD The symptoms of ADHD affect three to five percent of children in the United States that serves as the leading cause of underachievement as well as school failures (Parksepp, 1998). In the past the disorder incurred numerous labels “such as,” hyperkinetic reaction, hyperactive syndrome, attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity, and a minimal dysfunction of the brain. Males “in contrast,” to females because of underdiagnosing are more likely to endure...
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...Long-Term Consequences of Childhood ADHD and Criminal Activities: Does childhood mental illness have long term consequences in terms of criminal behavior? Abstract The question of whether childhood mental illness has long term consequences in terms of criminal behavior has been little studied, yet it could have major consequences for both the individual and society more generally. In this paper, we focus on Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), one of the most prevalent mental conditions in school-age children, to examine the long-term effects of childhood mental illness on criminal activities, controlling for a rich set of individual, family, and community level variables. The empirical estimates show that children who experience ADHD symptoms face a substantially increased likelihood of engaging in many types of criminal activities. An included “back-of-the-envelope” calculation of the social costs associated with criminal activities by individuals with childhood ADHD finds the costs to be substantial. Long-Term Consequences of Childhood ADHD and Criminal Activities: Does childhood mental illness have long term consequences in terms of criminal behavior? Introduction Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most prevalent and fast growing mental health problems facing children. The prevalence is estimated to be between 2-10% of school aged children, with 7.4 percent of parents who have children between the ages of 3-17 reporting...
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...with ADHD Cynthia G. Humphrey Wayland Baptist University RSWR 3345 August 2011 Abstract This paper explores various treatment options for children and adolescents with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. The outcome of previous research was reviewed showing the effects on children and adolescents with ADHD when the method of treatment was pharmacology and when the method of treatment was pharmacology along with behavior modification. Behavior modification refers to programs that were administered in an academic environment or behavior programs that were part of psychotherapy. This paper specifically addresses the academic effects of treatment with medication, the effects of treatment with medication and behavior modification, and the effects of treatment with behavior modification alone. Keywords: ADHD; children; adolescents; behavioral; academic; treatment Effective Treatment for Children and Adolescents with ADHD Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a complex mental disorder that is controversial because of its method of diagnosis and detection. Children and adolescents with ADHD generally have difficulty concentrating, finishing tasks, controlling behavior, acting impulsively, and being overactive. Managing youth with ADHD can be difficult for parents, teachers and others that have direct contact with the child or adolescent. Medication is one of the most common first lines of treatment used to manage and alleviate the symptoms of ADHD in children...
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...Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) ADHD is known as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. ADHD is a neurocognitive behavioral developmental disorder most commonly seen in childhood and adolescence, which often extends well into adulthood. This is the most diagnosed behavior disorder in children. Recent studies have shown that it affects 7% to 8% of the school-aged children and 4% to 5% in adults. This disorder tends to occur more with males than females (Antshel). People that have ADHD can experience many behavioral difficulties that often manifest into behavioral issues. Although there is no proven way to prevent ADHD, With the proper diagnosis and treatment, people with ADHD can learn to cope with the daily demands of the classroom, social situations, and with family. The behaviors that are associated with ADHD can create other problems and complications such as, failure to completing ones’ education, alcohol and other drug abuse, and an increased risk for delinquency. ADHD symptoms fall into three groups: lack of attention (inattentiveness), hyperactivity, and impulsive behavior (impulsivity) (Antshel). People with ADHD are easily distracted, forget instructions and have a poor short term memory. Most people with ADHD are often unable to sit still and are often restless and fidgety. These symptoms tend to occur more frequently in busy or highly stimulating group settings, like the classroom/office and family gatherings. Typically, increased stimuli and...
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...Advantages of Medicating Children with ADHD The Advantages of Medicating Children with ADHD The educational effect of medicating a child who has been correctly identified with attention-deficient hyperactive disorder (ADHD) far supersedes the adverse affects of the drugs being prescribed. In understanding that each child is different in their way and usually exerts an abundance of energy compared to adults is not a qualifying factor in being ADHD. Children who have not yet began school in a controlled and structured environment cannot be assessed by physicians with accuracy. Teachers play their most crucial role before any diagnosis is actually made by the family physician, psychiatrist, or pediatrician. According to Weber et al. (1992), children who are suspected of having ADHD are initially identified because of their behavioral and academic performance in the classroom. Studies conducted in schools repeatedly report the same sequence of events for many children referred for suspected ADHD. Teachers become aware of the students' difficulty in meeting the behavioral, attention, and academic norms for the class and suggest the possibility of ADHD to parents. Students who are constantly being placed in time-out, reprimanded, and conference cannot learn when all of the teacher’s attention is placed on behavior instead of academics. As a result of proper medical evaluation and teacher questionnaires, a student who is diagnosed with ADHD could build a successful foundation...
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...ADHD: Kiddie Watch Affecting our Daily Lives Benefits of early intervention for special children stressed Article by: | | IVY LISA F. MENDOZA Manila Bulletin Website If there is one thing that has been proven beneficial to children with special needs, it is early intervention (EI). Experts say that intervention services given early to children with special needs starting from ages 0 to eight years old result to long-term benefits thus minimizing the need for special education and other related services. Among these EI services are therapies (speech, physical, occupational), special education and others. "There are also the humanistic and pragmatic rationales for EI, and the biological fact that the human brain?s plasticity allows it to develop when stimulations are provided,?? revealed Dr. Mark Reysio Cruz III, a developmental and behavioral pediatrician whose work involves children with special needs. Dr. Reysio-Cruz along with Mrs. Susana Gosalvez-Pe, a parent of three children with Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) recently shared their expertise and experience with early intervention, detection and assessment in special education at a symposium. Titled ??Phases to Face: Detection, Assessment and Intervention," the symposium was organized by the master?s in special education class of Dr. Lilia S. Bautista in De La Salle University (DLSU) which aimed to present varying viewpoints in dealing with children with special needs, particularly...
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...Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder? Page 4 Possible Symptoms of ADHD Page 5-6 Possible Causes of ADHD Page 7-10 Possible Treatments for ADHD Page 11-12 Medication for ADHD Page 13 Evaluation Page 14 Conclusion Page 15 Bibliography Page 16-17 Introduction As part of the assessment in my Psychology module, my tutor has asked me to select an illness for my second assignment. The assignment must be informative and well researched. I am expected to cover the basics of the illness. I have decided to do my assignment on (ADHD) Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, I have chosen this disorder as I have not got much knowledge or proper understanding of it and would like to educate myself more and file it in my brain with all the other illnesses/disorders I do know about. ADHD is a well known disorder yet there seems to be a lot of confusion on the topic also. Within the assignment I plan to research the topic to the best of my ability through media, books, magazine, internet and organisations where it is possible. I will cover the causes, symptoms, treatments, look into help groups and centres, my aim is to get a clearer understanding of how the disorder comes about basically live the life of an ADHD patient and see how life is through their eyes. I will finish my assignment with...
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...ADHD is one of the most common childhood disorders, the American Health Institute states “Approximately 3-7% of school-aged children have the disorder. Larger cities may have rates as high as 10-15%. About 4 million children are affected nation wide. “ The earliest your child can get tested is 3 years old, so if you see any symptoms in your child your child should be tested because they may have adhd. Psych Central states “ About 20 to 30 percent of children with ADHD also have a learning disability (LD). This is a problem that is unexpected given the child’s general intelligence In preschool children, this often appears as a difficulty understanding certain sounds or words and/or difficulty in expressing oneself in words. In school age...
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...ADHD: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD, is a very complex condition that generates a great deal of debate. The debate surrounding this disorder is intense. Debates encompass issues such as, what causes it, how to assess ADHD, and how to deal with it effectively. This essay deals with some of the debates in an attempt to simplify the issues. The first question that needs to be answered is what is ADHD? It is behavioural problems revolving around three main symptoms. One main symptom that an ADHD person displays is the inability to keep their attention focused on something. They are easily distracted, forget instructions and have a poor short term memory. The second main symptom prevalent among those with ADHD is their impulsiveness. They act or shout out inappropriately. They have a short fuse which can lead to temper tantrums. The third main symptom is that those with ADHD are hyperactive. They are unable to sit still and are often restless and fidgety. These factors usually cause problems within the sufferer’s families. ADHD symptoms also cause problems for the sufferer in educational settings, (for children) and in occupational settings, (for adults). There are three subtypes to ADHD. The first subtype is someone who is both hyperactive and impulsive. The second subtype is one who is inattentive only. For example, studies show that at least 40% of people with ADHD have the “Inattentive Type” only. The third subtype is one who shows all of these symptoms combined...
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...UNDERSTANDING ADULT ADHD ALENE CAMP UNIVERSITY OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PRINCIPLES OF PSYCHOLOGY Orisade Awodola, M.A., Ph.D 06/04/2013 UNDERSTANDING ADULT ADHD TABLE OF CONTENTS ABSTRACT…………………………………………………………….…………………………3 DEFINITION OF ADHD…………………………………………………………………………4 SYMPTOMS AND DIAGNOSIS OF ADULT ADHD………………….………………………4 TREATMENT OF ADULT ADHD………………………………………………………………7 RECENT CHANGES AS DEFINED IN DSM V…………………………………….………….7 SUMMARY……………………………………………………………………………………….9 REFERENCES……………………..……………………………………………………………11 ABSTRACT Childhood ADHD receives a lot of media attention. From opinions of faulty diagnoses to general disagreements regarding types and amounts of medication used to treat the symptoms, there is a running dialogue in the media and annals of schools and homes. However, little is known about adult ADHD. This paper will analyze current research to glean a clear idea of what exactly is Adult ADHD, symptoms and prescribed treatments and will discuss current trends and changes in the field of psychology as it relates to ADHD. UNDERSTANDING ADULT ADHD Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has been a topic of media, parents, educators and the community for years. Debates range from those curious about the actual definition of ADHD to those concerned with medications prescribed for its treatment. Primarily seen as a disorder that affects school aged children, little is known about ADHD as it progresses into...
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...NEW RESEARCH Does ADHD Predict Substance-Use Disorders? A 10-Year Follow-up Study of Young Adults With ADHD Clancey Bateman, Timothy E. Wilens, B.A., M.D., MaryKate Martelon, M.P.H., Gagan Joshi, M.D., Ronna Fried, Ed.D., Carter Petty, M.A., Joseph Biederman, M.D. Objective: High rates of substance-use disorders (SUD) have been found in samples of adolescents and adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Predictors of SUD in children with ADHD who are at risk for the development of SUDs remain understudied. The main aims of this study were to identify clinically meaningful characteristics of children that predicted the future development of SUDs and to see whether the role of these characteristics varied by sex. Method: Subjects were children and adolescents with (n 268; mean age standard deviation 10.9 3.2 years) and without (n 229; mean age 11.9 3.3 years) DSM-III-R ADHD followed prospectively and blindly over a 10-year follow-up period onto young adult years. Subjects were assessed with structured diagnostic interviews for psychopathology and SUDs. Results: Over the 10-year follow-up period, ADHD was found to be a significant predictor of any SUD (hazards ratio 1.47; 95% confidence interval 1.07–2.02; p .01) and cigarette smoking (2.38; 1.61–3.53; p .01). Within ADHD, comorbid conduct disorder (2.74; 1.66 – 4.52; p .01) and oppositional defiant disorder (2.21; 1.40 –3.51; p .01) at baseline were also found to be significant predictors of SUDs...
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