Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is one of the most common disorders in children, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Children with ADHD often have difficulty focusing and also can be hyperactive and have trouble staying in one place. Experts at the Post-adoption Learning Center state that adopted children have higher rates of ADHD than other children, due to a variety of reasons.
Features
Children with ADHD have more frequent and intense bouts of boredom, problems paying attention and impulsive behavior than their peers. They are often easily distracted and daydream, and they may find it difficult to listen and follow directions. Kids with ADHD can also be impulsive and impatient, and may act out when waiting their turn or interrupt others to talk. The hyperactive component of ADHD leads children to have trouble sitting still, and be constantly active and running around.
Considerations
Experts have not found one known cause of ADHD, but attribute the disorder to a variety of factors, including genetics and the environment. Approximately 40 percent of children with ADHD have a parent with ADHD, according to the Post-adoption Learning Center. Mothers who smoke, use drugs or drink while they are pregnant increase their children's chances of having ADHD. Environmental factors such as malnutrition, neglect and lead poisoning also cause children to be more susceptible to the disorder.
Significance
Adopted children are more likely to have ADHD than the general population because they are exposed to more risk factors. Children who are placed in orphanages are more likely to experience neglect and malnutrition than children who live with their biological parents. In addition, mothers who place their children for adoption have higher rates of drug and alcohol abuse than the general population.
Misconceptions
ADHD can be difficult to diagnose in children. Sometimes children who are under great stress may exhibit signs of ADHD, such as difficulty focusing and concentrating, so therapists need to examine everything going on in a child's life. In addition, most children exhibit signs of ADHD, such as daydreaming or hyperactivity, once in a while, but if the symptoms persist for a period of at least 6 months and are more intense than other children their age, it may be ADHD.
Prevention/Solution
ADHD is usually treated with a combination of medication and counseling. Medication can help improve concentration and reduce hyperactivity. Common medications for children with ADHD include Ritalin, Adderall, Concerta and Strattera. Each child responds to medication differently and may need to try out different medications with a psychiatrist's supervision to determine which one produces the least side effects. Talk therapy and behavior therapy can also help children with ADHD learn to practice focusing and identify ways to socialize more with other children.
