Oconomowoc Developmental Training Center


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ATTENTION DEFICIT Hyperactivity Disorder

Overview

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a condition in which children show a persistent pattern of inattention along with hyperactive, impulsive behavior. These symptoms, which appear before age seven, are inconsistent with the behavior expected at the child's current stage of development. In other words, the child's behavior is significantly more inattentive, hyperactive or impulsive than that of other children of approximately the same age. It may be difficult to distinguish ADHD from age-appropriate behavior in active children who are in an under-stimulated or over-stimulated environment.

Symptoms usually decrease during adolescence. However, the symptoms of some individuals carry on into adulthood, causing social impairment.

These symptoms must be long term (lasting at least six months), excessive and pervasive. They must also exist in at least two separate settings (for example, school, home, work or social settings).

It is estimated that ADHD affects approximately 3-5 percent of children (about two million in the United States alone) and 2-4 percent of adults. It has been reported that boys are three or four times more likely than girls to be affected by ADHD.

Characteristics/Symptoms

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR), there are three subtypes of ADHD (Predominately Inattentive, Predominately Hyperactive/Impulsive and Combined Type), having the following characteristics and symptoms:

ADHD, Predominately Inattentive

The child shows at least six of these characteristics:

Fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, work or other activities
Has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities
Does not seem to listen when spoken to directly
Does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores or duties in the workplace
Has difficulty organizing tasks and activities
Avoids, dislikes or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort (such as schoolwork or homework)
Loses things necessary for tasks or activities (e.g., toys, school assignments, pencils, books or tools)
Is easily distracted
Is forgetful in daily activities

ADHD, Predominately Hyperactive/Impulsive

At least six of the following symptoms are exhibited:

Fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in his/her seat
Feels restless and leaves his/her seat in the classroom or in other situations in which remaining seated is expected
Runs about or climbs excessively in situations in which it is inappropriate
Has difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly
Blurts out answers before questions have been completed
Has difficulty awaiting his/her turn
Interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations or games)
Is "on the go" or acts as if "driven by a motor"
Talks excessively

ADHD, Combined Type

These individuals show characteristics meeting the criteria for both Inattentive and Hyperactive/Impulsive ADHD.

ADHD, Not Otherwise Specified

The category, ADHD-Not Otherwise Specified, describes those cases in which the symptoms begin at the age of seven years or older or cases in which children show the disruptive characteristics of the other types of ADHD but do not have enough of the symptoms to allow a full diagnosis.

Causes

The exact cause of ADHD is not known. Currently, it is believed to be the result of a chemical imbalance in the brain. Research indicates that there is a genetic or hereditary link.

Studies have shown, however, that ADHD is not caused by poor parenting, a poor education system, too much sugar, too much television or allergies to specific foods.

Treatment

Medication is often used to treat ADHD. The most commonly used medications are stimulants, such as Ritalin, Dexedrine or Adderall. It is reported that such medications improve some of the ADHD symptoms in about 90% of the children.

At ODTC, we attempt to provide a highly stimulating, motivating and reinforcing environment for children who have ADHD. Our treatment team identifies symptoms and behaviors in need of active treatment and considers the strengths and needs of each child in developing an individual treatment plan.

The environment is highly structured and highly predictable. Particularly for the child with ADHD, activities and schedules are planned to change with a frequency that accommodates his/her short attention span, and maximizes successful learning. Consistent routines are established, which become familiar and soothing to the child, providing the safety, security, and predictability needed to assist each individual in participating in and benefiting from treatment. Highly prescribed, specific, behavioral intervention systems are used not only to teach skills in all areas of functioning, but to facilitate progress in developing pro-social behaviors and reducing undesirable or dangerous behaviors. Overall programming is designed to enhance and improve the child's self image and sense of worth. Sensory stimulation, sensory integration activities and a high staff ratio also contribute to providing the best treatment environment possible.

Our education staff offer a curriculum and classroom support specific to the needs of the child with ADHD. The Individualized Education Program (IEP) is designed to enhance the child's strengths and utilizes teaching methods and modalities based on the child's best learning mode.

The staff at ODTC recognize that each child is unique with individual strengths and needs. Our priority is always the well being of each child. If we find that ODTC cannot offer the very best care and services for your child, we are happy to help facilitate placement in another facility.

Contact Information

Feel free to contact us if you have any specific questions or would simply like more information or resources.

E-Mail (please click on the link): Mike Purpura, Director of Community Relations
Phone: 1-262-569-5515, Extension 3140