What You Should Know about Attention Deficit Disorder
It has been estimated that as many as 4.4% or adults have some degree of 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. An old theory that ADD can be caused by poor diet has now been disproven. And ADD is never caused by bad parenting. Genetics are the biggest cause with most cases of ADD inherited from parents. A child is 30% more likely to exhibit the symptoms of ADD if a parent or close family member has the condition.
The symptoms of ADD can generally be recognized in childhood. Child development traverses three distinct phases. The first takes place when they are babies and they start to focus on an object such as a rattle or a mobile. The object will hold their attention for a period of time.
The next stage takes place during the toddler years when they can’t seem to focus on anything for very long. A child that continues to exhibit this type of behavior may be diagnosed as having ADD.
It’s the during the third stage that children develop the ability to focus for longer periods of time and to shift that focus at will. This ability is precisely what is required in the classroom.
One of the key aspects of ADD is not only that sufferers can’t focus on something for very long. ADD sufferers don’t have the ability to choose what they are focusing upon and can therefore be distracted by anything. This can become very apparent when a child with ADD has to carry out a routine task like getting ready for school. If they need to wait then their attention can easily be drawn elsewhere.
The ADD sufferers brain doesn’t release enough neuro chemicals so they find themselves looking around for more stimulus. For ADD sufferers this a spontaneous, reflex reaction that is outside of their control.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
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.