Attention Deficit Disorder - Research Paper Example

ATTENTION DEFICIT DISORDER Institute Attention Deficit Disorder With the development in science and research, new disorders and pathologies have been recognized and analyzed. Proper diagnostic techniques have assisted in understanding these disorders which greatly alter the normal living of an individual. Attention Deficit Disorder is one such psychological condition that has been identified. Previously this order was labeled as a condition that did not exist but was rather created by the patient to justify his actions.

But research into the disorder has highlighted the fact that this disorder truly affects a large number of people. It is a disorder of hyperactivity and lack of attention as the name indicates. This inattentiveness leads to a cascade of symptoms which makes life very difficult for the patients and they find it difficult to cope with the surroundings (National Institutes of Mental Health 2008; Klass 2010). Attention Deficit Disorder tends to show varying signs and symptoms which may be scaled according to the severity.

It tends to affect both boys and girls but the symptoms of increased activity and impulsiveness are seen in boys whereas lack of attention is seen more in girls. Inattentiveness leads to lack of concentration in particular situations as well as inability of focusing capabilities. This also results in lack of the ability to fulfill activities that require attention and focus. The symptoms of increased activeness are restlessness and increased habits of moving around. Impulsiveness is presented in the form of lack of patience and the expression of emotions irrespective of what the others might feel about it (National Institutes of Mental Health 2008; Klass 2010).

Radiological studies have highlighted the fact that the frontal lobe of the brain is affected by this disorder and it does not function at an optimal level in the patients suffering from Attention Deficit Disorder. Furthermore, there is imbalance of dopamine in these subjects which is also associated with the symptoms of the condition. Another important aspect of the disease is that the condition has a genetic predisposition as well and research has presented the fact that if one twin suffers from the disease, the other twin has a higher susceptibility of having the disease.

Smoking and alcohol consumption during the gestational period by the mother has also shown to result in a higher risk for the child to have the condition. The treatment of the condition is directed towards fixing the balance of the transmitter dopamine. Psychotherapy as well as behavioral therapy is utilized to treat the patients (National Institutes of Mental Health 2008; Klass 2010). Awareness regarding the condition has made many people with the condition come forward. Important figures in the world who suffer from the disease have also been highlighted.

Michael Phelps is one such figure who is a famous Olympic champion and he suffers from this disorder. Doctors have used his case to put forward an important aspect that children who have this condition are special and their capabilities need to be recognized. It is indicated that their symptoms of increased activity should be directed in the right path so that they can utilize their skills and come forward as extraordinary people (Parker-Pope 2008). Attention Deficit Disorder is a psychiatric condition which has many interesting aspects.

The disorder is characterized by inattentiveness, hyperactivity and impulsiveness. The condition is led to many factors and it can be treated by different methods. It has also been analyzed that the skills of these patients are impressive and they are a creative group of people who need to be given proper guidance and help. References Klass, P.(2010, December 13). Untangling the Myths About Attention Disorder. The New York Times. Retrieved from: http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/14/health/14klass.html?ref=health Top of Form National Institute of Mental Health (U.S.). (2008). Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Bethesda, MD: National Institute of Mental Health, U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health. Parker-Pope, T. (2008, November 28). A New Face for A.D.H.D., and a Debate. The New York Times. Retrieved from: http://www.nytimes.com/2008/11/25/health/25well.html Bottom of Form