Attention Deficit and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention Deficit and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADD/ADHD) is the most commonly reported childhood behavioral disorder, affecting between 3 and 7% of American children. It is characterized by poor attention span, impulsive behaviors, and hyperactivity in some children. The diagnostic criteria are strictly observational, and there are no objective laboratory tests to confirm that diagnosis. Subjective evaluations of annoying, distracting, or inattentive behavior makes the “diagnosis” of ADD/ADHD speculative at best. [1]
The most common medical “treatment” for this controversial “disease” is prescriptions of Methylphenidate (Ritalin), a Class II controlled and addictive substance. The long–term effects of this drug on children is unknown, but the side–effects, including addiction, are becoming better understood. (more…)