ADHD
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a disorder of neurobiological origin that interferes with the behaviour and learning ability of the children who have it.
A definitive diagnosis can be made from the age of 6/7. At earlier stages, although some warning signs typical of ADHD may already be observed, it must be borne in mind that some of these symptoms are considered normal in children's development.
ADHD may be associated with learning and/or behavioural disorders.
That is why, in order to reach a diagnosis, a thorough psychological and psychoeducational assessment of the child is needed, together with all the relevant information from the family, academic and social environment.
Main symptoms:
Attention deficit:
- Does not finish the tasks they start
- Is disorganised
- Finds it hard to concentrate
- Seems not to listen when spoken to
- Seems to daydream
- Finds it hard to get organised
- Avoids tasks that require effort
- Often loses things
- Difficulty planning tasks
- Easily distracted by anything
- Forgets to write homework in their planner
- Does not hand in homework and/or assignments on time
- Their work is presented carelessly (they forget their name, the date, the title, do not respect the margins, etc.)
- In class they go unnoticed and/or are considered unintelligent and lazy pupils.
Impulsivity:
- Act without thinking
- Find it hard to wait their turn
- Often interrupt games or conversations
- I want it - I do it
- Answer hastily
- Little awareness of risk
- Low frustration tolerance
Motor hyperactivity:
- Constant movement of hands and feet
- Keeps getting up
- Finds it hard to play quiet activities
- Talks a lot, never stops
- Seems driven by a motor
When impulsive and hyperactive behaviour predominates, disruptive behaviour and aggressiveness are often observed both in the classroom and at home. At these times it is very important that both the family and the school seek professional help.
According to the type of symptoms, the “Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V)” distinguishes 3 types of ADHD:
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, predominantly inattentive presentation.
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, predominantly hyperactive- impulsive presentation
- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, combined presentation.
INTERVENTION
ADHD requires psycho-emotional, psychoeducational and pharmacological intervention
Psycho-emotional intervention: to provide strategies that help children and adolescents develop their self-control, manage and control dysfunctional emotions and train social skills.
Educational intervention: A psychoeducational re-education is needed to stimulate the affected cognitive areas (attention, concentration...) and to provide the necessary strategies (self-instruction training, study habits, etc.) that allow them to cope with academic learning.
Pharmacological intervention: if considered appropriate and on medical prescription.