ADD
My brother Michael was diagnosed with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), a neurological condition in which the brain has problems organizing the numerous stimuli that are incoming at any given moment, as well as selecting an appropriate response. He is now 14 and taking medications for his disorder. Michael has problems staying focused, he feels easily bored, he's very forgetful and unorganized but also very hyper and unable to sit still. These are the typical behaviors of most people diagnosed with ADD or ADHD. Sure everybody has some of these symptoms some of the time. However, like my brother, individuals with ADD have more of these symptoms more of the time and to the point where it interferes with their ability to function normally in academics, work and social settings, and to reach their potential. Many studies estimate that between three and five percent of the population has attention deficit disorder. However, recent controversy has erupted to whether Attention Deficit Disorder is a legitimate medical diagnosis. 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 t
It is also very important to have an assessment that is individualized and designed to uncover any existing conditions or problems that could be causing symptoms that look similar to the symptoms of ADD. Therefore a thorough evaluation is very important, one that includes comprehensive evaluations as well as ability and achievement tests. Walker, in his argument does not give enough support back up his claim. They are absolutely and categorically wrong in doing it" (Walker 2). hat any underachiever or inattentive child fits the bill. Pertaining to this problem, a diagnosis of ADHD often leads to therapy with psychostimulant medications like Ritalin. there are hundreds of scientific studies demonstrating it" (Barkley 5). Another factor that aids in establishing ADD as a valid disorder is that it is treatable through prescription medication and behavior therapy. In other words Barkley disagrees with Walker stating that ADD is a legitimate disorder and there is plenty of evidence and research! to prove it. Yet, the cause of ADD is still unclear, although, much more is known about effectively coping and managing this persistent and troubling developmental disorder. These statistics give yet more evidence and a better understanding of ADD as a true disorder that needs medical attention. Barkley contributes by stating, "ADD clearly harms its victims ticking off the following statistics: 90% of ADD children are academic underachievers, 25% are held back at least one grade, 36 percent don't finish high school and more than half have no friends during high school" (Barkley 6). Stimulant drugs, such as Ritalin, Dexedrine, and Aderall when used with medical supervision, are usually considered quite safe. To better understand the disorder one first must know how it interferes with ones ability to focus, sustain attention and effect memory retrieval, it is important to understand how the brain functions with ADD.
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