ADHD

1
ADHD

• Case Methods

2
What we know

• ADHD is a valid disorder
• We dont know if it should be conceptualized as
  the far end of a normal continuum or if it is
  qualitatively different
• ADHD has a central nervous basis
• Brain-behavior correlations are not proof that
  ADHD is a disordered biological state
• ADHD can affect a person life-long

3
General Characteristics

• Inattentiveness
• Having trouble attending to tasks or play as long
  as others of same age
• More disorganized, distracted and forgetful
• Not returning to task when interrupted
• Hyperactivity
• More motor activity
• Less ability to control overflow movements
• Fidgetiness
• Cant stop behavior
• Talking and interrupting
• No delay of gratification
• Responding too quickly, impulsive

4
Comorbidity

• At least 50 of children with ADHD meet criteria
  for another disorder
• Conduct disorder
• Anxiety disorders
• Mood disorders

5
Long-Term Goals

• Maintain attention and concentration for longer
  periods
• Increase frequency of on-task behaviors
• Better impulse control
• Parents/teachers using an age-appropriate
  contingency program
• Structure in the home
• Improve self-esteem
• Develop positive social skills

6
Short-term goals

• Psychological testing to confirm diagnosis
• Medication compliance
• Increase frequency of completed school
  assignments (in school and at home)
• Increase frequency of completed home chores
• Develop a structured routine in the home
• Parents use natural and logical consequences
• Increase verbalizations of acceptance of
  responsibility for misbehavior
• Develop effective problem-solving skills
• Develop empathy
• Express feelings appropriately