Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Its Impacts Essay

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Its Impacts - Essay Example This research will begin with the definition of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or attention deficit disorder (ADD) as one of the most common psychiatric disorder affecting children. It also affects the adolescents and adults. ADHD is a behavioral and developmental disorder whose cause remains an issue governed by controversies. The affected individuals lack the ability to stay focused and are inattentive. They are hyperactive and are easily distracted. These symptoms can be present individually or as a combination of both of the above. ADHD is the most common psychiatric disorder diagnosed in children affecting them at the frequency of 3-5%, though 4-7% of the affected children continue to suffer in the adulthood as well. Boys are affected 2-4 times more frequently than girls are. The reason for this discrepancy still remains to be identified. ADHD is basically a behavioral disorder, which renders its diagnosis rather difficult. These symptoms are considered a part o f the normal developmental behavior of a child at a young age, but when these symptoms do not resolve with increasing age or if the severity of the symptoms worsens, and then this leads to the diagnosis of ADHD (Berger et al 2008). ADHD is a disorder which can be treated either through behavioral therapies or through medications. Nowadays both these treatment options are considered for the cure of ADHD. However, it is believed by many that many of the patients suffering from ADHD are being overmedicated.