Abstract The paper explores attention-deficithyperactivitydisorder (ADHD) by considering its history, symptoms, and the way in which children are assessed. The paper then devotes time to discussing the cognitive ablilities of children with ADHD, including memory skills, and concludes with a brief discussion on future issues facing children with the disorder.
Outline:
Introduction
Historical Overview
"The Story of Fidigty Philip"
Assessment of Children with ADHD Cognitive Abilities of Children with ADHD ADHD Children and Memory
Conclusion
From the Paper "Although ADHD was not discovered by Dr. Heinrich Hoffman, a physican who published a number of books pertaining to psychiatry and medicine, his book "The Story of Fidigty Philip" (1863) clearly portrays a child with ADHD. Nevertheless, it was not until 1902 that Sir George F. Still described a condition which he entitled "Morbid Defect of Moral Control," and which he ascribed to a genetic disorder rather than that of poor parenting. His work described a group of children with significant behavioral problems, including high levels of hyperactivity and impulsiveness, thus referring to what is now termed ADHD."
Abstract This paper describes and discusses various methods for teaching children with AttentionDeficitHyperactivityDisorder (ADHD). The paper also discusses the difficulties encountered by children with ADHD.
Abstract This paper introduces the common childhood disorderAttentionDeficitHyperactiveDisorder (ADHD) and discusses the signs, symptoms, affects and treatments of the disorder.
From the Paper "Children with ADHD face a dual situation. They must face the fact that they have a disorder and be open to trying treatments that are often controversial. The drugs used to treat it have come under fire for many years and parents are often searching for natural treatments that will work. This discovery about massage helping the ADHD participants stay on task hints at future holistic success in treating the disorder."
Abstract This paper takes an in-depth look at the behavioral disorder known as Attention-Deficit/HyperactivityDisorder (ADHD), providing first a general definition of the disorder, a description of typical symptoms associated with ADHD, and an explanation of why it is difficult to understand the etiology of ADHD. It then describes the difficulty in assessing and diagnosing children with ADHD, discusses what is known about the etiology of the disorder, and looks at treatment options available for ADHD. The paper also briefly discusses what is known about ADHD in adults and concludes by noting that additional areas of study are required in order to obtain a better understanding of ADHD.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Etiology
Treatment
Comorbidity
ADHD in Adults
From the Paper "Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a very controversial disorder, and its diagnosis, unfortunately, is only empirical. ADHD is a "very loosely defined assemblage of neuropsychiatric clusters appearing in childhood and often persisting into adolescence and even adulthood" (Kidd, 2000). The most common symptoms of ADHD include age-inappropriate inattention/inability to stay focused, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. However, other symptoms may often include things such as restlessness, mood swings, temper tantrums, problems completing tasks, disorganization, and an inability to cope with stress (Kidd, 2000)."
Abstract This paper explains that, because the clinical diagnosis of attentiondeficithyperactivitydisorder (ADHD) is based on symptomatology and that, because there are no biological markers as yet, physicians and parents are concerned with the accurate diagnosis of children with ADHD and the quantification of the level of impairment. The author points out that, in the U.S., the incidence of the diagnosis of ADHD has skyrocketed over recent years. The paper stresses that the simple question is whether ADHD is a genuine disorder or a pathological label for normal, if frustrating, childhood behavior such as inattentiveness, hyperactivity and impulsiveness. The paper includes several quotations.
From the Paper "Although guidelines have been established, to assist physicians in the diagnosing of ADHD, many physicians are unfamiliar with these guidelines. Instead, they base their diagnosis on inaccurate methods such as in-office observation and whether or not the patient responds to stimulant prescriptions, which leads to over-diagnosis via mis-diagnosis of ADHD. This inconsistent and inaccurate testing is compounded by society's desire to see children diagnosed with ADHD."
Abstract This paper discusses attentiondeficithyperactivity, covering the history behind the diagnosis, current opinions and methods of treatment. The paper also provides data from studies carried out that have discovered that children experiencing traits resembling today's ADHD usually had someone else in the family also afflicted, that is that this problem runs in families. The paper includes some figures, diagrams and sample assessments charts as well as guidelines as set out by the American Academy of Pediatrics for the diagnosis and evaluation of attention-deficit/hyperactivedisorder.
Outline:
Students Like C.J.
A Diagnostic Label
More than 100 Years Ago
In time
Contemporary Consensus Regarding Diagnosis of ADHD American Academy of Pediatrics: Guidelines for ADHD Assessment
Diagnosis of ADHD DSM-IV- TR Criteria
Treatment Tactics
Medication With Therapy
Six-Session Study
The MTA Study
Answers from Research Stimulates New Question
From the Paper "ADHD, as conceptualized today, does not constitute a new condition. More than 100 years ago, in three consecutive issues in The Lancet in 1902, Dr. Still described children displaying syndrome symptom, similar to the way researchers identify ADHD today. When Dr. Still lectured to the Royal College of Physicians, he described children who "had an inhibition of the will....were not able to control themselves...not able to partake effectively as members of a group...seemed to have a moral defect and their defect...could not conform and be a contributing, supportive part of the group effort." (Prince, 1994-2008) Although the symptoms these children displayed, resembled challenges children with obvious brain injuries portrayed, neither the children nor the families of these children came from families with no apparent brain injuries. Consequently, two initial terminologies, "minimal brain disease" and "minimal brain dysfunction" evolved."
Abstract The paper defines and describes attentiondeficithyperactivitydisorder (ADHD) in order to research the side effects of psychotropic medication in children when compared with herbal remedies. The paper also examines behavior modification implemented in the classroom. The paper then shows how each of these treatments has advantages and disadvantages and concludes that more research is needed.
Outline:
Introduction
AttentionDeficitHyperactivityDisorder Treatments for ADHD Discussion and Conclusion
From the Paper "According to the National Institutes of Health, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity disorder was first brought to the attention of the medical and psychological communities in 1902 when Sir George Still published lectures that were given to the Royal College of Physicians in England. The lectures discussed children displaying impulsive behavior as a result of a genetic dysfunction. The symptoms associated with ADHD include hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention ("Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder"; Barondes, 2003)."
This paper argues against the use of prescribed medications for the treatment of AttentionDeficitHyperactivityDisorder (ADHD) and suggests alternative methods of treatment.
Abstract This paper explains that, because children with ADHD have behavioral characteristics that are disruptive in the classroom, parents of children with attentiondeficithyperactivitydisorder may experience numerous battles with educators and administrators about the need to medicate their children. The author points out that prescribed medications, commonly given to ADHD children such as Adderall and Ritalin have many side effects. The paper urges that a consistent behavior modification program is an excellent and successful substitute for medicating these children
Table of Contents
History of ADHD and its Symptoms
Struggles of having a Child with ADHD Medications Used for the Treatment of ADHD and their Side Effects
Alternative Options for Treatment
From the Paper "Another commonly prescribed medication for the child with ADD or ADHD is Ritalin. Ritalin has historically been used for the treatment of ADD of ADHD the longest, and it has the same side effects as Adderall and all of the other medications prescribed for the treatment of ADD and ADHD. In May of 2000 in a Texas court, the law firm of Waters and Kraus brought forth a class action suit against the manufactures of Ritalin. This suit charged that the American Psychiatric Association committed fraud in conspiring to over-promote the diagnosis of ADHD and its treatment with the stimulant, Ritalin (Breggin). What many citizens do not know is that representatives of prescription drug companies visit doctors' offices on a daily basis."
Abstract This paper presents a case study of a little girl called Theresa who is diagnosed with AttentionDeficitHyperactivityDisorder (ADHD). The paper explains the disorder and discusses the different symptoms evident in a child with ADHD. Different methods of treatment are explored. The paper contends that, while there are many speculative theories of the cause of ADHD, the actual cause is unknown.
From the Paper "To offer a shared understanding of what attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD) is, the following case study is presented for the reader. Theresa is a five-year-old girl attending kindergarten in a small town. Prior to beginning kindergarten, Theresa seemed to be well adjusted and well liked by everyone. Everything changed when she started kindergarten. Theresa's teacher was sending home notes on a daily basis describing behavior that was not the normal for Theresa. According to her teacher, Theresa refused to follow the class rules and was causing problems and getting in fights with the other children. Naturally, Theresa's mother was concerned and worked diligently with the teacher to turn Theresa's behavior around. All to no avail. Theresa kept getting into trouble and her mother, in a last ditch effort, decided to take Theresa in to see a physician. The family physician referred Theresa to a child psychologist in hopes they would be able to make a diagnosis. Some of Theresa's abnormal behaviors included constant motion when she was suppose to be sitting down or resting quietly with the rest of the class, constant body motion when she was sitting (i.e. swinging her feet, tapping her hands on the desk), not paying attention to the teacher. The psychologists interviewed Theresa and her mother and observed Theresa for several hours. Of course the behaviors in question were all present during the entire interview. At the conclusion of the interview, the psychologist diagnosed Theresa with ADHD."
This paper reviews an article by K. L. O'Connell about the pediatric nurse's role in the assessment and treatment of AttentionDeficitHyperactivityDisorder (ADHD).
955 words (approx. 3.8 pages), 1 source, 2002, $ 33.95
Abstract The author believes that this article by K. L. O'Connell is a valuable practical guide to the assessment and treatment of AttentionDeficitHyperactivityDisorder (ADHD). The paper reviews O'Connell's working description of some aspects of the nursing process. This paper states that the nurse's primary role emerges at the assessment stage and that the second important nursing role, especially for school nurses, is in the treatment of ADHD.
From the Paper "Behavioral interventions, controlled environments and individual and family counseling also are described as complementary aspects of treatment. In the sample case O'Connell describes a subject whose symptoms were first identified by a pediatric nurse and whose school performance and behavior were vastly improved by two years of Ritalin therapy and environment management (e.g., seating selection and isolated settings for academic testing)."
Abstract This paper seeks to determine whether any children suffering from ADHD ever really 'grow out of it', identifies and analyzes the specific factors involved, discusses what treatments may be administered to assist the process, and draws appropriate conclusions as to the veracity of the data in the sources which have been consulted. The difficulties involved in diagnosing AttentionDeficitHyperactivityDisorder in adults are also examined, as is the question of whether these difficulties trigger uncertainty about the scope of adult ADHD and subsequently hinder any true understanding of how many children grow out of ADHD.
Abstract This paper analyzes the increase in the number of children identified as suffering from AttentionDeficit (Hyperactivity) Disorder, or AD(H)D. Two pertinent areas are debated in an attempt to provide a logical solution to developing coping strategies for the child, as well as his or her educators and family. One, the writer believes that the escalation of ADD/ADHD cases is, in part, due to inappropriate developmental expectations that cause some learners to be regarded as 'learning disabled' or underachievers. Two, because our schools and culture esteem the highly articulate or logical people in our society, uniform teaching methods in the classroom should be reviewed to also include alternative teaching methods that recognize diverse intelligences, so that individuals with a unique way of thinking and learning are recognized and acknowledged and not marginalized. The paper also includes information on pharmacological treatment and psycho-social therapeutic techniques as relevant treatment for children diagnosed with ADD/ADHD.
Outline
Introduction
Definition of ADD/ADHD Symptoms
Thesis Statement
Developmental Expectations
Alternative Teaching Philosophy
Treatment
Pharmacological Treatment
Psychosocial Therapeutic Techniques
Conclusion
From the Paper "Sometimes the term 'attention deficit disorder', referred to as ADD, is used as an alternative to describing 'hyperactivity' at the severe end of the spectrum. ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity. This mental condition is under-recognized and includes symptoms such as forgetfulness, poor academic performance, difficulty completing tasks and being easily distracted. Children suffering from ADHD are also fidgety and inclined to interrupt others. "ADHD is also characterized by multiple symptoms of persistent and dysfunctional patterns of over-activity, impulsiveness, inattention, and distractibility". (Behavior Disorders, 2003). Severe hyperactivity is also called hyperkinetic disorder, which is only diagnosed when all three main features - impulsiveness, over-activity and inattention - are present. In addition, the presence of these traits should be consistent at school and at home and have to be placed in the context of the overall development of the child."
Abstract This paper discusses the lack of research that exists with respect to attentiondeficit/hyperactivitydisorder (ADHD) and its treatment. It particularly discusses the research available with regard to drug treatment for the disorder. The paper discusses some of the issues related to ADHD, the research that is available and the areas that have not been clearly researched or are lacking definitive answers. The paper also discusses the significance of the lack of research and why more research needs to be done into this area.
From the Paper "In closing, the last several pages have clearly shown that ADHD is a problem for which there are, as of yet, few definitive answers. This is significant because we are, in effect, plying children with drugs even as we have yet to determine which ones are best for which elements of ADHD - or if any one of the drug products now on the market really work at all in overcoming all of the symptoms that make Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder such a complex and frustrating thing to treat. When time is taken to review the literature, it is fairly clear that we should be retreating from our heavy reliance upon drugs in this matter until we can develop products capable of addressing all of the facets of ADHD and not merely one item or the next. Further, it would also help if we could arrive at some consensus about which drugs really work for which symptoms. In the end, much more work remains to be done."
Abstract The paper explains the symptoms and diagnosis of attentiondeficithyperactivitydisorder (ADHD) and then discusses the treatments that involve stimulants, non-stimulants and behavioral therapy. The paper also looks at the latest research on ADHD and concludes with a summary of the interventions necessary for this disorder.
Outline:
Abstract
Introduction
ADHD Symptoms and Diagnosis
Treatment Methods
Behavioral Therapy
Genetic and Brain Studies
Conclusion
From the Paper "ADHD causes significant psychosocial dysfunction and severely affects academic performance of the child. The condition requires continuous monitoring and treatment, as the symptoms tend to persist well into adulthood. As several research studies indicate, a combined treatment model involving medications and behavioral therapy is the most effective method for improving symptoms and effective management of the disorder. The new developments in brain research and in particular studies of the functional MRI images have shed new light into our understanding of the pathology of ADHD. The development in genetic science has also furthered our understanding of the genetic susceptibility of ADHD."
Abstract This paper discusses some of the varied and abundant literature that exists regarding attentiondeficithyperactivitydisorder (ADHD). The paper discusses the conclusions from many of the studies and how they are, at least in some cases, seen as very controversial, and are sparking a large amount of scholarly debate over the correct methods of addressing such a prevalent problem.
From the Paper "Other studies look to treat not just the physical ailments, disabilities or anomalies of ADHD but look to discover how treatments used to treat other disorders can affect those with ADHD if they were treated with them. One study showed the effects of behavioral therapy on autistic children and concluded, "Results suggest that behavioral treatment was effective for children with autism in the study" (Eikeseth, Smith, Jahr, Eldivik, 2007, p. 264). This leads to the question of whether such treatments can also assist those who are affected by ADHD. This particular study could be of interest because it dealt with such young subjects (ages 4-7) and it showed excellent results. If these same type of treatments were available for individuals with ADHD, and they worked as well, it would seem that implementation of this type of treatment would be beneficial to society, just like a study on a community's water source might also be beneficial."
