Understanding Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Book excerpt: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects approximately five percent of American school-age children. In a classroom of thirty, it is likely that at least one child will have ADHD. Symptoms include extreme levels of hyperactivity, inattention, and disruptive behavior. A Harvard University study published in September 2004 reported that students with ADHD are less likely than their non-ADHD peers to complete high school and less likely to attend college. The study found that on average those adults with ADHD have household incomes that are about $10,000 lower for high school graduates and $4,300 lower for college graduates, compared with those who do not have ADHD. Understanding Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a concise, clearly written overview of the condition’s symptoms and the range of possible treatments. Chapters explain how certain behavioral patterns can be misdiagnosed as ADHD, how early diagnosis and treatment of the condition is critical, how the various forms of the condition affect a child’s psychology and socialization, and how parents can help to address the condition effectively and supportively. Understanding ADHD provides useful, up-to-date information on a condition that can be treated with early diagnosis and intervention. The book will prove useful to professionals and parents seeking a better understanding of children and childhood development.