ADHD

Abnormal Psychology

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What is ADHD Significant problems with:

Attention ___________ Hyperactivity

Is the most common reason for _________ in the US

Prevalence of ADHD

Approximately 3 - 5% in the US 1/20 children. Boys outnumber girls ___ 50% of children dx w/ ADHD show sxs in

adulthood.

Comorbidity

_____% meet another dx Examples:

ODD CD Tourette’s

Thoughts on Causes of ADHD Primary cause = ___________ Chronic low levels of lead Fetal alcohol syndrome Pre-maturity Obstetrical complications during the

pregnancy Infectious diseases

Past thoughts on Etiology Allergic/toxic reactions Diet Environmental causes Poor ___________

Symptoms

Begins in childhood but may persist into adult life

Childhood – hyperactivity / impulsivity Adulthood – ___________

Symptoms of ADHD

INNATTENTION

1. _______________ – in school work/ other activities.

2. Difficulty sustaining attention 3. Doesn’t seem to listen 4. Doesn’t follow through with instructions5. Avoid/ dislike tasks that require sustained

mental effort. 6. Difficulty with organization7. Often looses things needed for tasks or

activities. 8. Easily distracted9. Is often forgetful.

Symptoms Continued

HYPERACTIVITY1. Often fidgets or squirms2. Often leaves seat in classroom when remaining in seat

is expected. 3. Often runs or climbs excessively when it’s not

appropriate.

4. Often has difficulty playing ___________

5. Often talks excessively 6. Often “on the go” or acts as if “driven by a motor”

Symptoms Continued

IMPULSIVITY ___________ answers Difficulty waiting his/ her turn ___________ or intrudes on others by butting into

conversations

Diagnosing ADHD

No one is sure that it's a neurochemical imbalance ... There is no blood test, no PET scan, no physical exam that can determine who has it and who does not.

In general, children are said to have ADHD if they show 6 or more sxs from each category for at least 6 mos

Prevalence in Females vs Males

Females more likely to be seen as day dreamers, spacey, social butterflies –

Males - hyperactivity and impulsivity signs of ADHD

Treatments of ADHD

The best treatment for ADHD is a matter of debate.

______________ drugs are the most common treatment.

Drugs – Stimulants drugs such as Ritalin, Concerta, Dexedrine, Adderall or Antidepressants such as, Paxil, Prozac, Zoloft and Risperdal.

The use of drugs is becoming of more concern w/in the science community.

Other Possible Treatments

Diet – ___________ Behavior modification – Token reward

systems / punishments, Counseling, special accommodations in the

classroom, family and community support. THE BEST APPROACH = TEAM APPROACH

A Common Misconceptions Regarding Psychostimulants

Myth - That Ritalin has the ___________ effect on people w/o ADHD.

Fact - Stimulants can temporarily sharpen almost ___________ focus.

Research on Stimulants

Ritalin which is the primary medication used seems to increase levels of dopamine in the brain.

All these medications may help alleviate the core symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity.

Problem - stimulants can be given to children as young as 2 to 4 years of age.

Side Effects of Psycostimulants in Children

Decreased appetite Weight loss ___________ problems sleeping. Small percentage of children may develop

jerky muscle movements

Side Effects Continued

Ritalin – may be associated with a slightly reduced ___________ rate in children

Adderall – has raised concerns because of reports of sudden unexplained deaths in children taking the medication.

Side Effects of Psychostimulants on Adults Increases in blood pressure Risk of ______________ may be greater. Adults are far more likely to be given

antidepressants along with ADHD medication. Therefore increased side effects are:

Dry mouth, Urinary retention, Weight gain, Drowsiness Sexual dysfunction.