Studies have estimated that as many as 4.4% of adults suffer from Attention Deficit Disorder. Statistics show that ADD sufferers tend to be lower academic achievers and can have difficult in holding a steady job.
ADD is actually caused by problems with the brains dopamine neurotransmitter systems. An old theory that ADD can be caused by poor diet has now been disproven. Neither is ADD the result of parental influence or bad parenting. Genetics are the biggest cause with most cases of ADD inherited from parents. A child is 30% more likely to exhibit the symptoms of ADD if a parent or close family member has the condition.
Its during childhood that the symptoms of ADD can become readily apparent. Children develop through three distinct stages. The first stage occurs durning babyhood when they begin to focus on objects around them. The object will engage their focus for a limited period of time.
The next stage will be familiar to parents of toddlers as this is when their attention is continuously shifting from one thing to another. If a child continues to show this type of behaviour they are likely to be diagnosed as having ADD.
The third stage is when a child develops the ability to focus on an object or a task for longer periods of time and they are able to shift this focus at will. This ability is precisely what is required in the classroom.
A key aspect of ADD is not only that sufferers can’t concentrate on a topic or subject for very long. ADD sufferers don’t have the ability to choose what they are focusing upon and can therefore be distracted by anything. This can become very apparent when a child with ADD is required to undertake a routine task. If they need to wait then their attention can easily be drawn elsewhere.
In the ADD sufferers brain there is inadequate stimulus to release neuro chemicals and this forces them to look for something else. For ADD sufferers this a spontaneous, reflex reaction that is outside of their control.
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I hope that these brief notes have provided some insight into the causes of ADD. There are many forms or treatment, some involving drugs, but one of the most effective involves camping and outdoor activity. Bushcraft courses can be a great way to learn about the outdoors at any time of year. Just make sure you are wrapped up in some warm outdoor clothing and you take along a good sleeping bag.
Tags: ADD, ADHD, attention deficit disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder