Understanding Attention Deficit Disorder
Saturday, November 14th, 2009Statistics show that as many as 4.4% of adults suffer from Attention Deficit Disorder. Statistics show that ADD sufferers tend to be lower academic achievers and can have difficult in holding a steady job.
ADD is actually caused by problems with the brains dopamine neurotransmitter systems. Some have suggested that it can be caused by poor diet but this theory has been disproven. And ADD is never caused by bad parenting. Genetics are the biggest cause with most cases of ADD inherited from parents. If a close family member or a parent has ADD then there is a 30% chance that a child will exhibit the same condition.
Its during childhood that the symptoms of ADD can become readily apparent. Children are known to develop through three distinct stages. The first stage occurs as babies when they start to focus on various objects around them. The object will engage their focus for a limited period of time.
The second stage takes place during toddlerhood when they are continuously shifting their interest from one thing to another. A child that continues to exhibit this type of behavior may be diagnosed as having ADD.
It is the third stage of development when children exhibit the ability to focus for longer periods of time and to control their focus. This ability is recognised as mature and is exactly what is required in the classroom.
A key aspect of ADD is not only the inability to concentrate on a topic or task for a very long period of time. ADD sufferers lack the ability to choose what they focus upon and what attracts their attention. This can become very apparent when a child with ADD has to carry out a routine task like getting ready for school. They may not be able to wait patiently, instead being distracted by anything else around them.
What is happening is that their brain is not adequately stimulated to release neuro chemicals and so it looks for additional stimulus. For ADD sufferers this is a reflex reaction over which they have no control.
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Hopefully these notes will have provided some insight into what underpins Attention Deficit Disorder. There are many forms or treatment, some involving drugs, but one of the most effective involves camping and outdoor activity. Bushcraft courses can be a great way to learn about the outdoors at any time of year. Just make sure you are wrapped up in some warm outdoor clothing and you take along a good sleeping bag.
