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Childhood ADHD Current Treatment Strategies
Symptoms of childhood ADHD/ADD affect cognitive, academic, behavioral, emotional, social, and developmental functioning. ADHD/ADD disorder is the most commonly diagnosed neurodevelopmental disorder in children and adolescents.
Although there are many theories, no single cause for ADHD/ADD has been substantiated. A number of risk factors that affect a child's brain development and behavior may lead to ADHD symptoms. These risk factors include (1) genetic factors, (2) behavioral disorders and (3) medical conditions that affect brain development and various environmental influences on the developing brain. Although ADHD was thought to predominantly affect boys, more recent studies have shown no association between a child's sex and the disorder. There is also no correlation between a child's sex and cognitive, psychosocial, school, or family functioning.
Typically, a child with ADHD/ADD initially exhibits unmanageable behavior such as hyperactivity, classroom disruption and lack of focus. At the request of parents and/or teachers, generally, a child's pediatrician or primary care physician (PCP) is consulted first. To make an accurate diagnosis, it is vital for a medical provider to elicit information about the child's ongoing peculiar behavior. This information can be effectively provided by family members and non-family members who are familiar with children such as coaches, teachers and other caregivers.
Pharmacologic and behavior approaches are effective in the treatment of ADHD/ADD, particularly when combined. Pediatricians and PCPs should be familiar with the multiple medications available to treat ADHD/ADD. Stimulant medications are first-line agents.
There are a number of well-supported behavioral interventions for ADHD/ADD. Most behavioral approaches focus on rewarding desired behavior and applying consequences for unwanted behavior. Gradually, a child's thinking and behavior can be reshaped over time. For example, tokens or points may be given to the child to immediately reward good behavior or work. Interventions that help reinforce parental involvement include support groups (such as CHADD.org), which connect parents who have children with similar problems and parenting skills training, which gives parents techniques and tools for managing their child's behavior.
Combining behavioral modifications and pharmacotherapy may reduce the need for higher medication dosages. It may provide modest advantages for non-ADHD/ADD symptoms and positive functioning outcomes.
By consulting a licensed psychologist with expertise in diagnosing and offering cognitive therapy and behavior modification support, a child with ADD and his or her parents can develop a lasting partnership. The main goals of any ADHD/ADD therapy should be to foster positive, constructive family interactions and promote continued future success in childhood, adolescence and beyond.
