Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Over- or Under- Diagnosed?
Today's topic in Principles of Drug Action was ADHD. This "disorder" is very controversial in the medical world, as it is in society. I'm sure, since all of my readers are parents, that you all have your own opinion on the subject. I personally think it's an excuse for poorly behaved children that have not been adequately beaten by their parents. Either that or dogs can get it too. As you may or may not know, ADHD is treated with a variety of highly controlled stimulants. They are powerful, highly addictive, and if not used correctly, dangerous. Not only do they have a high abuse potential, they have a high street value. So what is all of this leading to? What is your opinion of the "ADHD epidemic?"
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3 comments:
Oh, the power of suggestion, the effect of a microwave culture, the result of . . . I could go on, and I could say the same about a lot of problematic trends today. I'm skeptical, knowing that I'm far from out of the woods of my children's formal education. . . and that I haven't seen it all.
On a lighter note, I have wondered if I have started to develop ADHD, after years of working with perpetual interruptions . . . MOM, Mom, Mommy, Mom, Mama, MOM, . . . what were we talking about? :)
Hmmm. A very tricky question, indeed. My thoughts are that many parents and/or doctors are quick to jump on the ADD/ADHD bandwagon, often using that to blame (or as a crutch) rather than a lack of consistent discipline/structure at home. What I've seen more and more, though, is parents who refuse to accept, acknowledge, or treat a child who is clearly having difficulties with attention. And I mean, painfully inattentive. It's heartbreaking.
What kills me is why is so much more prevalent now than it was twenty, or even ten, years ago? I ask the same question about autism (and many other issues impacting students I see). I know there are MANY factors that go into answering that questions (changes in what qualifies or how we diagnosis), but the biggest one for me is this: What, if anything, are WE doing to contribute to these issues?
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