Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Experimental Critique
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is considered a severe mental disorder categorized by hyperactivity, lack of concentration and impulsive behavior. Symptoms of ADHD can affect children at a very early age, some younger than seven. The symptoms consist of excessive talking, hyperactivity, frequently daydreaming, and easily distracted. School-aged children who have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder have difficult time learning compared to students who do not have this disorder as it impairs their ability to stay focused in the classroom. Some students are very restless and tend to act out without control. Medication and counseling is the most common method of treatment. However, many families struggle with the appropriate medication to give their child with this condition. There are concerns if stimulant therapy for ADHD creates substance abuse later in life.
Stimulants are usually the method of medication most children are given to control attention deficit hyperactivity disorder versus non-stimulants. There are many stimulants medicines available; however, non-stimulants can be used as an alternative measure. My youngest daughter is ADHD and the only method of medication that will have any impact on her treatment is a somewhat higher dosage of stimulant medication (Concerta). Unfortunately, the stimulants can bring out other triggers, such as verbal and facial tics. Because of not knowing the total effects of a stimulant drug to control attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, some parents prefer to use psychotherapy as the preferred treatment instead of medication because of the concerns of the future effects.
Dr. Joseph Biederman had concerns that children with ADHD who used stimulant therapy may increase their chances of becoming addicted to substance abuse later in life. There is not much data on the continuing effects of taking stimulant drugs to...