Children Who Can't Pay Attention /
ADHD
(http://www.aacap.org/publications/factsfam/noattent.htm) |
Parents
are distressed when they receive a note from school saying that their child
won't listen to the teacher or causes trouble in class. One possible reason for
this kind of behavior is Attention? Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
Even
though the child with ADHD often wants to be a good student, the impulsive
behavior and difficulty paying attention in class frequently interferes and
causes problems. Teachers, parents, and friends know that the child is
misbehaving or different but they may not be able to tell exactly what is
wrong.
Any
child may show inattention, distractibility, impulsivity, or hyperactivity at
times, but the child with ADHD shows these symptoms and behaviors more
frequently and severely than other children of the same age or developmental
level. ADHD occurs in 3-5% of school age children. ADHD must begin before the
age of seven and it can continue into adulthood. ADHD runs in families with
about 25% of biological parents also having this medical condition.
A
child with ADHD often shows some of the following:
trouble
paying attention
inattention
to details and makes careless mistakes
easily
distracted
loses
school supplies, forgets to turn in homework
trouble
finishing class work and homework
trouble
listening
trouble
following multiple adult commands
blurts
out answers
impatience
fidgets
or squirms
leaves
seat and runs about or climbs excessively
seems
"on the go"
talks
too much and has difficulty playing quietly
interrupts
or intrudes on others
A
child presenting with ADHD symptoms should have a comprehensive evaluation.
Parents should ask their pediatrician or family physician to refer them to a
child and adolescent psychiatrist, who can diagnose and treat this medical
condition. A child with ADHD may also have other psychiatric disorders such as
conduct disorder, anxiety disorder, depressive disorder, or bipolar disorder.
These children may also have learning disabilities.
Without
proper treatment, the child may fall behind in schoolwork, and friendships may
suffer. The child experiences more failure than success and is criticized by
teachers and family who do not recognize a health problem.
Research
clearly demonstrates that medication can help improve attention, focus, goal
directed behavior, and organizational skills. Medications most likely to be
helpful include the stimulants (various methylphenidate and amphetamine
preparations) and the non-stimulant, automoxetine. Other medications such as
guanfacine, clonidine, and some antidepressants may also be helpful.
Other
treatment approaches may include cognitive-behavioral therapy, social skills
training, parent education, and modifications to the child education program.
Behavioral therapy can help a child control aggression, modulate social
behavior, and be more productive. Cognitive therapy can help child build
self-esteem, reduce negative thoughts, and improve problem-solving skills.
Parents can learn management skills such as issuing instructions one-step at a
time rather than issuing multiple requests at once. Education modifications can
address ADHD symptoms along with any coexisting learning disabilities.
A
child who is diagnosed with ADHD and treated appropriately can have a
productive and successful life.
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