Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is the most common neurodevelopmental disorder in children and adolescents. Despite its prevalence and years of extensive research, there are many myths which persist about ADHD. Shedding light on pervasive myths can help reduce the stigma that has been associated with ADHD and ensure that individuals with ADHD receive better understanding and support. So, what are some of the commonly held myths surrounding ADHD?
Myth: ADHD is Not a Real Disorder
ADHD is a legitimate neurodevelopmental disorder that affects executive functioning, including attention, impulse control, and self-regulation. ADHD can cause functional disability and impairs life activities including social, emotional, academic and work functioning. There are an extensive number of clinical and scientific publications published on ADHD. Research suggests there are differences between individuals with and without ADHD. For example, studies show differences in the development of the brain of individuals with ADHD, such as cortical thinning in the frontal regions and reduced grey matter (Matthews et al. 2014).
Myth: ADHD is a Condition that Only Affects Children
ADHD is a disorder which occurs across an individual’s lifespan. The majority of children with ADHD continue to struggle with symptoms as adults. There is research that suggests ADHD persists from childhood to adolescence in 50%–80% of cases, and into adulthood in 35%–65% of cases (Barkley 2015).
Myth: ADHD is Caused by Poor Parenting
ADHD is a medical condition and not the result of poor parenting practices. Research suggests genetic and neurological factors are the main causes of ADHD rather than social factors including poor parenting. ADHD tends to run in families and research suggests there is a heritability chance of 57% for a child if a parent has ADHD (Barkley, 2015).
Myth: ADHD is Over Diagnosed
There is some evidence that ADHD continues to be underdiagnosed, particularly in girls, older adults and individuals from minority backgrounds. It is true that the number of children diagnosed with ADHD has increased over the years. There are several possible explanations for the increase rates of ADHD diagnosis. One explanation points to better awareness of ADHD amongst healthcare practitioners and the use of best practice guidelines to more effectively identify and accurately diagnose ADHD. There is also some evidence suggesting the increased rates of ADHD may be related to environmental or neurological factors including prenatal exposure to toxins, pregnancy and birth complications.
Myth: Medication is the Only Treatment Option for ADHD
While medication can be an effective part of ADHD treatment, non-pharmacological treatments can also provide improvement in symptoms. Adjustments to lifestyle factors such as sleep, diet and physical activity can assist with symptom management. Psychologists can provide cognitive behaviour therapy to help children and adolescents management their symptoms and behaviours. ADHD coaching is another non-pharmacological treatment which can be helpful.
Myth: If You Have ADHD, it Means You Can’t Ever Focus
Individuals with ADHD can have difficulty focussing and may be easily distracted. However, individuals with ADHD are also capable of what’s referred to as hyperfocus. This means they are able to intensely focus on a task or interest if it is something they enjoy and find highly engaging. Hyperfocus can be a strength in certain situations as it allows for intense concentration on a task and can lead to positive outcomes such as high productivity.
Butterfly Psychology for Kids conducts ADHD Assessment and Diagnosis in Perth following best practice from the Australian Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guideline For Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (2022). For further information on ADHD evaluations click here.
References: Myths and Misunderstandings. CHADD. www.chadd.org
Barkley, Russell A. (2015). Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Handbook for Diagnosis and Treatment, 4th ed.
Matthews et al. (2013). Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Current Topics in Behavioral Neurosciences
8 Common Myths About ADHD. Understood. www.understood.org
コメント