jueves, 29 de agosto de 2013

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)


Definition: 


  • Is a syndrome that is diagnosed in childhood. It is characterized by disordered learning and disruptive behavior that is not caused by any serious underlying physical or mental disorder. It interfers especially with academic, occupational and social performance.

Symptoms:

  • Impulsive Behavior
  • Inattentiveness
  • Hyperactivity
  • Are in constant motion
  • Squirm and fidget
  • Do not seem to listen
  • Have trouble playing quietly
  • Often talk excessively
  • Interrupt or intrude on others
  • Are easily distracted
  • Do not finish tasks

3 Types of ADD in Children

  • Combined Type      ( Inattentive/Hyperactive /Impulsive): Children with this type of ADD show all three symptoms. This is the most common form of ADD.

  • Hyperactive/ Impulsive Type: Children show both hyperactive and impulsive behavior, but for the most part, they are able to pay attention.

  • Inattentive Type: these children are not overly active. They do not disrupt the classroom or other activities, so their symptoms might not be noticed.

ADD Treatment

Treatment plans may include special education programs, psychological intervention, and drug treatment. Studies show that long-term treatment with a combination of medications and behavioral theraphy is much better than just medication treatment or no specific treatments in managing hyperactivity, impulsivity, inattention, and symptoms of anxiety and depression. 

Myths about Attention Deficit Disorder

Myth #1: All kids with ADD/ADHD are hyperactive.
Fact: Some children with ADD/ADHD are hyperactive, but many others with attention problems are not. Children with ADD/ADHD who are inattentive, but not overly active, may appear to be spacey and unmotivated.
Myth #2: Kids with ADD/ADHD can never pay attention.
Fact: Children with ADD/ADHD are often able to concentrate on activities they enjoy. But no matter how hard they try, they have trouble maintaining focus when the task at hand is boring or repetitive.
Myth #3: Kids with ADD/ADHD could behave better if they wanted to.
Fact: Children with ADD/ADHD may do their best to be good, but still be unable to sit still, stay quiet, or pay attention. They may appear disobedient, but that doesn’t mean they’re acting out on purpose.
Myth #4: Kids will eventually grow out of ADD/ADHD.
Fact: ADD/ADHD often continues into adulthood, so don’t wait for your child to outgrow the problem. Treatment can help your child learn to manage and minimize the symptoms.
Myth #5: Medication is the best treatment option for ADD/ADHD.
Fact: Medication is often prescribed for attention deficit disorder, but it might not be the best option for your child. Effective treatment for ADD/ADHD also includes education, behavior therapy, support at home and school, exercise, and proper nutrition.

References: 


Web Sites: 

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