ABOUT
An introduction to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
A BRIEF OVERVIEW
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a learning disability caused by the brain which results in inattention, hyperactivity, anxiousness and/or compulsive tendencies. Unfortunately, this disorder cannot be cured. However, the effects of this disability can be quelled with the proper guidance from teachers, parents, counselors, psychologists, psychiatrists and/or medication.
If you are a teacher, chances are you have had a student with ADHD in your classroom. And if you haven’t yet, you most likely will in the near future. One research article found that “ADHD is among the most common neurobehavioral disorders presenting for treatment in children” (Wilens & Spencer, 2010, p.1). According to the National Institute of Mental Health, “ADHD occurs in an estimated 3 to 5 percent of preschool and school-age children. Therefore, in a class of 25 to 30 children, it is likely that at least one student will have this condition” (AACAP, n.d., para.3). Because ADHD is the most common learning disability among school-aged children in America it is worth taking the time to learn more about this condition.
ADHD is an overarching term that encompasses three subcategories or ‘presentations’: Hyperactive-Impulsive type, Inattentive type, and Combined type (demonstrating 6 or more symptoms from each of the first two categories) (Williams, 2018, para.2). It is important to note that this disability is often referred to as Attention Deficit Disorder or ADD. ADD was the original technical name of the disability. The name has since been changed to incorporate hyperactivity. This website will outline all three types of ADHD in order to give a clear understanding of the different degrees of the disability and the umbrella that they now fall under.
References
American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychology. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.aacap.org/aacap/Families_and_Youth/Resource_Centers/ADHD_Resource_Center/FAQ.aspx#question1
Wilens, T. E., & Spencer, T. J. (2010, September). Understanding Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder From Childhood to Adulthood. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3724232/#S1title
Ready to Make a Change?
Educating children with ADHD is no easy task. Know that you are not alone. Please enlist the help of our school to find the right plan and solution for your child.