The Objective: Through comprehensive research I have read and studied many conflicting viewpoints about the importance and benefits of attention deficit disorder and the treatments used. . I hope that with this paper I will explore why ADHD treatments have been under scrutiny. I also want to show how researchers are still trying to solve the puzzle of what exactly is ADHD and what is the best way to cure it.
             According to a new report released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention approximately 1.6 million elementary school-aged children have been diagnosed with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. In a national survey, the parents of 7 percent of children 6-11 years of age reported ever being told by a doctor or health professional that their child had ADHD (American, 2000).
             ADHD is a neurological condition associated with the brain's chemistry and anatomy. ADHD causes inattention and/or hyperactivity. ADHD usually begins in childhood, around the age of seven, and can persist into adulthood as well. While some children outgrow ADHD, about 60% continue to carry their symptoms into adulthood (Witmer, 2004).
             ADHD previously fell under the headings of learning disabled, brain damaged, hyperkinetic or hyperactive. In 1902, ADHD was termed as the "morbid defect of moral code," (Lilly, 2004). The term attention deficit hyperactivity disorder was introduced to describe the characteristics of children suffering from it more clearly.
             Defining ADHD has been a long a tedious process for doctors. Most children's ADHD symptoms include impulsivity, overactivity or difficulty controlling activity so that it is appropriate to circumstances, and inability to focus attention. Children are known for being hyper and talkative. There has been concern in some circles that ADHD has been over-diagnosed among those with regular access to health care (Barkley, 2000). There is equal concern that the problem may be und...