11 - Concentration Problems: Attention Deficit Disorder

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is characterized by a serious, persistent difficulty with poor attention span, weak impulse control, and hyperactivity. Neurobiological data indicates that ADD is deeply rooted in the central nervous system. A certain portion of the brain is responsible for attention, handwriting, motor control, and inhibition responses. The rate at which the brain uses glucose, its main energy source, is lower in persons with ADD. However, no single factor has been established as being responsible for triggering ADD.

This condition usually appears before seven years of age. It is far more prevalent in males than females. ADD is often misunderstood as willful misbehaviour or lack of effort at a task or a refusal to take an interest in the world. Symptoms in 30 to 70% of the patients continue into adulthood.

boy distracted from reading

Symptoms of ADD include the following:

• fails to give close attention to details
• often does not seem to listen
• does not follow through with instructions
• has difficulty organizing tasks
• loses things
• is easily distracted by outside stimuli
• is forgetful of daily activities
• fidgets
• may talk excessively
• may interrupt others

Children with ADD are vulnerable to failure in the two most important arenas for developmental mastery—school and peer relations. ADD has often been inaccurately portrayed as a type of specific learning disability. It is not. Children with ADD do not have trouble learning. However, they do have difficulty performing in school due to poor organization, impulsiveness, and inattention. Children with ADD do not routinely show signs of serious emotional disturbances, but they may exhibit problems with self-esteem if not properly treated.

Adults with ADD are often undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. This can lead to low selfesteem, increased frustration, and educational failure. Years of struggling with ADD might increase the risk of drug abuse and depression. Adults with ADD are restless, easily distracted, have difficulty concentrating, are impulsive and impatient, and may be short tempered, disorganized, and have career difficulties. Adults can benefit by structuring their environment. For example, they can use an appointment book, tape recorder, make a list of tasks, and learn time-management skills. They can eliminate negative self-statements and enlist a friend to provide some constructive feedback.