Attention All
...disorder (ADHD), one of the most prevalent childhood neurobehavioral disorders, affects 3% to 5% of the school-age population. Boys outnumber girls three or more to one. The research on the causes of ADHD is still in the early stages. There is a definite link between genetics and ADHD; however there may be other factors which contribute to the development of the disorder. Characteristic behaviors of children diagnosed with ADHD are inattention, hyperactivity and impulsiveness. Children with ADHD are at high risk for behavior problems, scholastic difficulties, and poor social relationships. Parental, professional, classroom, and/or pharmaceutical interventions may be necessary to promote the welfare and development of the child. ADHD is a chronic condition continuing into adulthood in approximately half of all childhood cases. Often the hyperactive-impulsive symptoms diminish in adulthood, however the attention problems may persist.
There is no definitive answer to the question, "What causes ADHD?" Despite years of research, the cause of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder still remains somewhat unclear or incomplete. Evidence does however indicate that there are many factors contributing to the disorder, among them genetic and neurobiological vulnerabilities. "While its precise neural and pathophysiological substrate remains unknown, an emerging literature suggests the presence of abnormalities in frontal networks or frontal-striated dysfunction" (Wilens). Although there are several theories to try to explain the causes of ADHD, most experts agree that it is most likely not any single cause, but instead a combination of factors. In addition to genetics, poor or inadequate prenatal nutrition and care, maternal alcohol or drug use during pregnancy, malnutrition, high levels of stress, and physical, neurological, or psychiatric conditionshave...
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