Attention Dficit Disorder in Today's Society
Attention Dficit Disorder in Today's Society
Attention deficit disorder is the subject of two widely challenged debates in medicinal practice and theory. One, the argument for ADD being a clinical and mental “disorder”, is in favor of medical treatment, claiming the diagnosis is attributable to brain damage or neurological defects. The second gives an alternative idea behind ADD, stating that people showing traits of the disorder often exemplify characteristics such as creativity, inventiveness, and even giftedness. As a rising percentage of children are being diagnosed with the disorder, more and more research has been called for, in an attempt to find an actual cause. ADD is classified as multi-factorial, meaning that multiple reasons are generally attributed to its development and diagnosis. A diagnostic criterion includes hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. The intent of this paper is to provide arguments and evidence on both sides of the issue, followed by standard and alternative methods for dealing with ADD. The history of attention deficit disorder goes back to World War 1, when a number of soldiers who experienced head injuries demonstrated hyperactivity as a side effect. It was then that ADD was classified as a disorder related to either brain damage or a defect of some kind. It has been proven, however, that this is false. ADD or attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD) can also be attributed to giftedness. Studies show that ADD is genetic and it runs in families. Years ago, only children exhibiting severe affects of hyperactivity were diagnosed, mostly because they suffered brain damage or trauma. Today, the diagnostic criterion has been expanded so that any underachiever, or inattentive child fits the bill. Subsequently, millions of kids in America are getting labeled as ADD. Most studies show that 3 to 5 percent of the population possesses attention deficit disorder. Symptoms related to the DSM-IV criteria, which includes inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, can show themselves in different ways. The two major types are ADD with hyperactivity, and ADD with inattention. The diagnostic criteria includes: • failing to give close attention to details or making careless mistakes • difficulty sustaining attention • appearing not to listen when spoken to directly • not following through on instructions and failing to complete tasks • organizational difficulties • avoiding, or not liking, tasks that require sustained mental effort • losing things necessary for tasks • being easily distracted • forgetfulness • fidgeting • leaving your seat...