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Miller, Geidel and Associates

Non-Profit  Family Counseling Center

Creating a WARM...SECURE...HOME-LIKE Environment.

 

 

Understanding…

A.D.D.

Attention Deficit Disorder

and A.D.H.D

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

What is Attention Deficit Disorder?

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), or Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD), seems to be a problem with neurotransmitters being unable to transmit messages through one or more parts of the brain. Whether we call it ADD or ADHD, we are basically talking about the same thing. However, there are three subtypes of ADHD, and they are: Combined Type; Predominantly Inattentive Type; and Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type. Approximately 4 to 6 percent of the population of the United States has ADHD, and it usually persists throughout a person’s lifetime. It is important to note that this disorder is not limited to children, and that children with ADHD will more than likely have problems and symptoms that will persist into adulthood, which will impact their lives at work, with family members, and in social relationships.

Characteristic ADHD behaviors:

Distractibility-poor sustained attention to tasks

Impulsivity-impaired impulse control and delay of gratification

Hyperactivity-excessive activity and physical restlessness

Note: These behaviors must be excessive, pervasive, long-term, appear before age 7, continue for at least 6 months, and create a handicap in at least two areas of life i.e., school, home, work, or social setting to meet diagnostic criteria.

Common Symptoms of ADHD

Some of the common symptoms of ADHD listed in the DSM-IV (the Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition) include the following:

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Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes

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Often has difficulty sustaining attention to tasks

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Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly

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Often fails to follow instructions carefully and completely

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Often losing or forgetting important things

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Feeling restless, often fidgeting with hands or feet, or squirming

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Running or climbing excessively

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Often talks excessively, blurts out answers before hearing the whole question

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Often has difficulty awaiting turn

 

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