Does my child have ADHD?

Attention Deficit Disorder(ADD), with or without Hyperactivity (AD/HD), is diagnosed in this country more than any other in the world, and in some regions of the U.S. more than others. Is it a valid diagnosis?

Yes and no.

We know that ADD is a neurological disorder that affects concentration, attention and impulse control. When children with ADD are given the proper medication and behavior management, their functioning in school and at home improves dramatically. However, there are many children who appear to have ADD but don't.

For example, a child may engage in what's called "attention-seeking behavior." Research presented to the British Psychological Society described children who are overactive, impulsive and concentrate poorly in the presence of adults. None of these children were found to have ADD; instead, their behaviors were reinforced by the reactions of the adults around them.

Similarly, a child may be aggressive and noncompliant because of emotional issues, such as feelings of depression and/or anxiety. A teacher may report the behaviors, and the parent may have similar problems at home, leading them to think that medication is the answer to their problems. But only a careful evaluation by a professional can truly discern the cause.

ADD is a description of what one sees. One needs to look beyond the label and determine what's happening inside.