Case Study: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Learning Team D
Week Six Learning Team Assignment
PSY/515
December 10, 2012
Naomi Hall-Byers, PhD, MPH
University of Phoenix Material
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Background Information
1. Outline the major symptoms of the disorder discussed in the case. The major symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are problems with attention; in this area the child seems to ignore detail, they are easily distracted, and they are unable to complete tasks. The next symptom is hyperactive behavior; in this area the child is restless and unable to sit quietly. The third area or symptom is called excessive impulsivity, in this stage
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ADHD symptoms usually appear early in life, often between the ages of 3 and 6 (NIMH, 2006, pp. 5). Some factors that contribute to predisposition of ADHD can be attributed to cultural factors (both psychological and biological), inherited factors, or genetic factors. Researchers are really focused on the gene factor that can make the person more likely to have ADHD (Faraone, S.V., Perlis, R.H., Doyle, A.E., Smoller, J.W., Goralnick, J.J, Holmgren, M.A., Sklar, P., 2005, & Khan, S.A., Faraone, S.V., 2006)”. “Studies also look into how a preschooler can possibly have ADHD by being exposed to lead in plumbing at a high level or from the painting in old buildings” (NIMH, 2006, pp. 4).
• Observations
1. Describe symptoms that you observed that support the diagnosis of the individual. During the interview, David showed signs of hyperactivity. He was fidgeting and caused the interviewers to become nervous around him. David can be seen doing flips over and over again on his trampoline, which shows us just how hyperactive he really is. David is unable to focus for more than a few minutes and his peers ostracize him for his hyperactivity. He also distracts himself with little noises and talks to himself as well as daydreams, which shows disruptive behavior. David has a difficult time studying and says the words jump around on the page. He also has difficulty in expressing good judgment and gets very excitable
While the cause of ADHD is not exactly clear, there are some different ideas of what could cause or help develop it. Genetics, one’s environment, and the development of the person could all be causes of ADHD(“Mayo Clinic”). ADHD can run in a family, so some people could develop it from their parents and the genes that get passed down from them. If one is exposed to lead, it could heighten the chances of
The primary features of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder include inattention and hyperactive-impulsive behavior. ADHD symptoms start before age 12, and in some children, they're noticeable as early as 3 years of age. ADHD symptoms can be mild, moderate or severe, and they may continue into adulthood.
Children are among the most vulnerable segment of the health care population. They rely on the good judgment and the care of adults to guide them to the best and safest possible treatments. Part of our responsibility, as adults, is to inform ourselves so that we can participate in a constructive way in that equation.
Some major causal variables that have been identified are categorised as neurological factors, toxic reactions, genetic linkages and environmental factors. However, most of the available evidence found, points to neurological factors, which are imbalances of neurotransmitters in the brain, and genetic variables as the primary causes of ADHD. The environmental factors and toxic reactions (such as lead exposure and food additives) are considered very minimal causes of ADHD. The search for causes of ADHD continues. There are many variables which are biological or thought to have an affect on biological functioning.
Over the past couple of decades there has been a huge increase in the diagnosis and prescriptions given out for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. According to a news report done by USA Today over the past five years use of ADHD medications have risen 40% totaling 39.5 million individual prescriptions ("New findings," 2009). When statistics like this are seen it is only normal for someone to ask questions. People are becoming curious about the legitimacy of the disorder, and whether or not the treatments being given to individuals are appropriate. The argument seems to be strong on both sides of the fence, but the extensive research done on ADHD leaves it hard for one to believe that it is a made up disorder.
The population of people with ADHD has increased by a significant amount.ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.An ongoing question about ADHD is how do you manage it and can it ever be outgrown.Adhd can’t be outgrown but if it’s treated the right way then kids grow to go on and live well constructive lives .ADHD is hard to control and manage for some kids ,ADHD is a chronic disorder that tough on a lot of people.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) uses its site to make the public aware of certain disorders, such as Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD). This website provides much information and knowledge on this disorder. There is sufficient information regarding ADHD for the reader that is seeking knowledge on this neurodevelopmental disorder. CDC's website provides the reader, or the parents of children with ADHD, with further understanding and knowledge concerning ADHD. The article puts forth the grave and serious facts on Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder. CDC explains the three different kinds of ADHD with its causes, and symptoms. Symptoms of ADHD include: hyperactivity, excessive daydreaming, and making unnecessary
Children who are diagnosed with ADHD struggle with managing behavior in school environments. As research has shown, students have difficulty paying attention and can be disruptive in class. This often leads to a decline in their academics and can hurt future academic achievements. There are a number of tools, programs, contracts, and classes that are available to students with ADHD. Along with a lack of attention and an abundance of hyperactivity, “twenty to thirty percent of ADHD children have an associated learning disorder of reading, spelling, writing, and arithmetic” (Daley & Birchwood, 2010). It can be difficult, as a teacher, to manage a classroom with children with ADHD. It is important that teachers, parents, and students, understand the opportunities available to them to help the child succeed.
The purpose of this research was to describe and understand Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and the most effective treatment options that are available today. ADHD is a mental health disorder that affects 3-9% of the population in ways that, if left untreated, can wreak havoc on the mind of the sufferer. It makes concentration difficult, large tasks seem insurmountable, and causes impulsive and hyperactive tendencies. Fortunately, research and experiments have led to new and effective treatments to help those who suffer from this disorder (Dupaul 8). This research examined journal articles and internet sources on the topic to help unlock the complexities of the disorder through scientific research. It also was a way to
ADHD is an abbreviation for attention deficit/hyper activity disorder. It is commonly referred to as a psychiatric disorder in need of therapy. The origination of the disease is in the neuro-physiological brain construct, and the main cause of the disorder is considered to be genetic (Wilson, 2012). Many children with ADHD struggle with impulsivity, hyperactivity, and inattention (Unnever, Cullen, & Pratt, 2003). According to McNamara, Vervaeke, and Willoughby (2008), “attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder is the most commonly diagnosed behavioral disorder among children and adolescents. It affects between 3% and 5% of school age children” (p. 38). In a
Estimates suggest that ADHD decreases in only about one-third of adolescence (santrock, 2003). It’s now being recognized that these problems may continue into adulthood. Definitive causes of ADHD have not been found. However, a number of causes have been proposed, such as low levels of certain neurotransmitter (chemical messengers in the
Sam is a nine-year old male in the fourth grade who has been referred for brief counseling. Both Sam’s teacher and mother have reported concerns that appear to be slightly outside normalcy. Based on the report from the mother and the teacher, I would diagnose Sam with 314.00 Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Predominantly Inattentive Presentation, Mild. To be diagnosed with ADHD, there has to be several inattentive or hyperactive symptoms present prior to the age of 12, according to criterion B. Sam’s mother disclosed that the behaviors have been present for at least two years at home and Sam’s third grade teacher reported similar behavior. In order to be diagnosed with ADHD, an individual must have six or more inattentive or hyperactive symptoms which are listed in criterion A, characterized by (1) and or (2), that have been persistent for at least 12 months.
Inattention is one of the distinguishable traits of ADHD (American Psychiatric Association, 2000). A child suffering from the symptoms of inattention in ADHD would probably lag behind schoolwork, have problems with communicating, and would struggle with cognitive activities like reading and comprehension. APA listed a total of 9 symptoms that are crucial to identifying ADHD in children (American Psychiatric Association, 2000). Following is the list of these symptoms and their brief explanation:
This paper explores Attention Deficit Hyperativity Disorder(ADHD) in children, teens, and adults. The American Pediatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manuals(DSM) have been used by healthcare professional to help diagnose ADHD. This diagnostic standard helps ensure people obtain the right diagnosis and receive correct treatment. The World Health Organization developed the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health(ICF) to "describe the functional problems of ADHD and to provide a systematic and comprehensive framework and common language for describing and assessing functional implications of health conditions", regardless of specific disease or disorder.(Loe & Feldman, 2007, p. 634). The DSM specify criteria for ADHD and list symptoms that identify three different presentations of ADHD. Because symptoms can change over time, presentations may change as well. The DSM-5 indicated changes for the diagnosis of ADHD which include a change in the age of symptom onset, some symptoms need to be present in more than one setting rather than impairment, new descriptions of symptoms in older aged kids to range to 17 and above, and younger children only need meet five of the symptoms versus the six identified in the past.
As in any situation with any student that is special or gifted or that IDEA, IEP, and 504 Plans, have to be the first and foremost concern for all parties involved. “Education For All Handicapped Children Act Passed in 1975 Guaranteed and enforced the right of all children with disabilities to receive free and appropriate education Considered the foundation of special education in the United States; 1990- Law renamed to IDEA. What is an IEP? Individualized Education Plan Written plan that describes the program and special services a student requires to be successful Developed by parents and educators Individualized- plan specifically developed for a child’s special needs