Oftentimes, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or attention deficit disorder (ADD) has been mistaken for a child’s taste of mischief. Most parents regard the symptoms as the natural state of children, knowing that kids will be kids and have high doses of energy. This being the case, some parents may be confused where bad behavior ends and where ADD/ADHD begins.
ADHD/ADD is a condition diagnosed in about eight percent of the children today. As the name suggests, it is characterized by the inattentiveness of a child. Prior to an ADD/ADHD diagnosis, there are various criteria that are set as a basis for the disorder. The following are the symptoms associated with the condition as mentioned by the DSM-IV criteria.
Inattention
Things like not listening when spoken to or failing to follow instructions are some of the things to look upon when checking for a child’s attention capabilities. Reluctance in doing activities that require mental workouts like homework and studying are also pertinent factors that may lead to the diagnosis. Although it may seem as though the above said are typical of any child, those with ADD/ADHD display these symptoms to the point that it becomes destructive to their development. Constantly losing objects used for activities may also be considered as a sign of inattention.
Impulsiveness
Spontaneity is a common trait for children; hence, the symptoms like failing to fall in line or suddenly butting in games or conversations might be an ordinary occurrence. However, constant situations like these even after being reprimanded may be sufficient lead to ADD/ADHD. Other signals include answering even before finishing asking a question.
Hyperactivity
This symptom is characterized by excessive talking as well as climbing and/or moving constantly even after being told specifically not to do so. Fidgeting with feet or hands is also considered a sign. Children with ADD/ADHD usually have trouble playing without being too noisy.
The above mentioned symptoms must be present even before a child steps to seven years of age and is not limited to one specific setting. This means that the child must display the symptoms in school, at home, or other locations they frequent to. Additionally, other mental disorders must first be eliminated like mood disorders or anxiety disorders since the mentioned symptoms are not unique to ADD/ADHD. Most important of all, the symptoms must have an effect on the child’s development, socially and academically and not just sporadic occurrences.
The TOVA method
The Test of Variables of Attention (T.O.V.A) is a computerized test that helps in the identification of ADD/ADHD in children. It measures the attention of a person through a 21.6-minute computer game while checking out how they respond to certain stimuli. These are then compared with the results of people who do not have ADHD/ADD. Since the game is simple and quick, TOVA is an ideal testing method for children with possible attention-deficit hyperactivity disorders.
EEG
Since ADD/ADHD is a neurobehavioral disorder (having to do with the nervous system as seen through behavior), it has been seen that specific patterns in the brain as seen through EEGs could actively pinpoint whether a child has ADD/ADHD or not. However, this does not mean that exams and tests may be ignored in favor of EEG.
Prelude to diagnosis
If your child is showing signs of ADD/ADHD symptoms, then it might be best to consult a doctor for a full evaluation. However, don’t start jumping into the conclusion that your child has attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. The fact that that symptom is typical of a child makes it necessary that doctors perform the full evaluation before arriving at a diagnosis.
First of all, expect your doctor to perform various tests like a physical exam or a mental aptitude test. After that, the child would then be interviewed by the doctor, asking questions that may be related to his or her behavioral change. The fact is that recent stress periods are also capable of triggering bad behavior. Things like family problems, school bullying, or moving houses may be the underlying cause of the child’s ADD/ADHD symptoms rather than the condition itself. These are the things the doctor may ask the child. Your input as a parent will also be asked with the doctor asking the same questions, plus other more pertinent details. Teachers or other people who associate daily with the child may also be asked regarding his or her behavior.
Once a child has been diagnosed with ADD/ADHD, treatment as well as medication options are made available to the parents. If your child has been diagnosed, it is important to learn as much as you can about the condition. Doctors as well as specialists will be able to help and advise you on how to deal with the situation. With proper treatment, medications, and support, children with ADD/ADHD can learn to cope with their symptoms and adjust accordingly throughout their adult lives.