Full Answer Section

In your opinion, why has diagnosis of this disorder increased over the past several decades?

There are a number of possible reasons why the diagnosis of ADHD has increased over the past several decades. These include:

• Changes in diagnostic criteria: The diagnostic criteria for ADHD have been revised several times over the past several decades. These revisions have made it easier to diagnose ADHD, which may have contributed to the increase in diagnoses.
• Increased awareness of the disorder: There is now more awareness of ADHD than ever before. This increased awareness may have led more parents and teachers to seek help for children who may have ADHD.
• Changes in the environment: Some experts believe that changes in the environment, such as increased exposure to electronic devices, may have contributed to the increase in ADHD diagnoses.

Why is this disorder more controversial than other childhood disorders?

There are a number of reasons why ADHD is more controversial than other childhood disorders. These include:

• The nature of the disorder: ADHD is a complex disorder with a variety of causes. This complexity makes it difficult to diagnose and treat ADHD, which can lead to controversy.
• The use of medication: Medication is the most common treatment for ADHD. However, there is some controversy about the use of medication for this disorder. Some people believe that medication is overprescribed, while others believe that it is an essential treatment for many children with ADHD.
• The social impact of the disorder: ADHD can have a significant impact on a child’s social, academic, and occupational functioning. This impact can lead to stigma and discrimination, which can further complicate the disorder.

Support your responses with examples.

• Inattention: A child with inattention may have difficulty paying attention in class, following instructions, or completing tasks. They may also be easily distracted and forgetful.
• Hyperactivity: A child with hyperactivity may fidget constantly, talk excessively, and have difficulty sitting still. They may also be impulsive and have difficulty waiting their turn.
• Impulsivity: A child with impulsivity may act without thinking, blurt out answers, and interrupt others. They may also have difficulty controlling their emotions and may be prone to angry outbursts.
• Medication: The most common medication for ADHD is a stimulant, such as Ritalin or Adderall. Stimulants can help to improve attention and focus, but they can also have side effects, such as decreased appetite and sleep problems.
• Therapy: Therapy can help children with ADHD learn how to manage their symptoms. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that can help children to learn how to change their thinking patterns and behaviors.
• Lifestyle changes: Lifestyle changes, such as getting enough sleep and eating a healthy diet, can also help to improve symptoms of ADHD.
• Changes in diagnostic criteria: The diagnostic criteria for ADHD were first published in the DSM-III in 1980. The criteria have been revised several times since then, most recently in the DSM-5, which was published in 2013. The revisions have made it easier to diagnose ADHD, which may have contributed to the increase in diagnoses.
• Increased awareness of the disorder: There is now more awareness of ADHD than ever before. This increased awareness may have led more parents and teachers to seek help for children who may have ADHD.
• Changes in the environment: Some experts believe that changes in the environment, such as increased exposure to electronic devices, may have contributed to the increase in ADHD diagnoses.