Some children and adults exhibit a degree of lack of attention that interferes with daily life at home, productivity at school or work, or in society. In such case, a disorder might be present called attention deficit disorder. The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry estimates that 3 percent to 7 percent of school-age children and about 4 percent of adults have the disorder.
Definition
Attention deficit disorder, more commonly known as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is a neurobiological disorder characterized by developmentally inappropriate impulsiveness, inattention, and in some cases, hyperactivity. The National Information Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities warns that all children will show these signs from time to time but that in the case of ADHD, these behaviors are the rule, not the exception.
Signs and Symptoms
The National Institute of Mental Health lists some signs and symptoms that if present over a couple of months could indicate that ADD is present. These include impulsiveness, hyperactivity or inattention. A person exhibits impulsive behavior when he acts quickly without thinking first. A hyperactive child cannot sit still and runs or climbs around when others are seated. Often he will talk incessantly. Inattention is evident in a child who daydreams often or appears oblivious to what is going on around him.
Diagnosis
If signs and symptoms are present in a child, have a professional diagnose the child. Persons to consult include child psychiatrists, psychologists, developmental or behavioral pediatricians, behavioral neurologists, and clinical social workers, according to NIMH. However, existing literature on attention deficit disorder provides various perspectives to its categorization and treatment.
Causes
No single cause for attention deficit has been found. Most research lists genes inherited from parents as the major contributor. A National Institute of Mental Health study showed that the rate at which the brain uses glucose is lower in subjects with ADHD. The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry has found that studies also show that divorce rate, education and employment achievement, and risk of substance abuse are, in fact, substantially higher in people with ADHD.
Treatment
As the NIMH notes, medication does not cure attention deficit. Rather, medication serves to control the symptoms. Stimulant medications can help the child with ADHD pay better attention in school. However, medication is highly disputed as a means for addressing the disorder in children because it has severe side effects. Other approaches, such as behavioral therapy or homeopathy might be beneficial.
