Tuesday, December 27, 2011

Myths And Misstatements Behind ADHD

Over the years, ADHD has become increasingly recognizable with more and more kids being diagnosed with the disorder. But as with any disorder, there is still a lot that is misunderstood about it that has led to countless myths and incorrect statements. It is important you understand the truth rather than the misconceptions that flood the disorder.

Perhaps the biggest myth behind ADHD is that only hyper children have the disorder. In no way, shape or form is this true as not all children are noisy and excessively energetic. On the contrary, there are some that are quiet and withdrawn. The three categories that make up children with the disorder is inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive and a combination of the two.

While it is true that more and more children have been diagnosed in recent years, it is incorrect to say it has become over-diagnosed. It is crucial to understand there is no evidence that shows over-diagnosed cases in the general population regardless of what parents, the media and even some physicians may claim.

One of the most disappointing claims behind children with ADHD is that they lack intelligence and will never succeed quite to the level as others their age. The truth of the matter is countless studies have proven data that show children with the disorder can be extremely bright, have strong cognitive skills with some even going on to win the Nobel Prize.

Going back to the hyperactive statement, some are led to believe children cannot sit still and pay attention for long periods of time. What you will find is children can pay attention remarkably easy if they find it interesting or challenging, and can even pay attention better than most. And unlike what some conclude, it is the combination of interest and challenge that leads to this; not that they are trying extra hard.

The final myth behind the disorder is that children will eventually outgrow it, which is what doctors used to tell parents and young patients. Sadly, long-term studies now show that children will not outgrow it at any time. Studies show that 60 percent of children with ADHD still battle the disorder as an adult.

ADHD is becoming more and more common with many thinking they understand everything there is to know about the disorder. The fact is there are a number of myths and misstatements that have taken over the disorder that need to be correctly understood to fully comprehend and realize what it is all about and what people with it can expect for the future.

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