Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Adolescents

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Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder is commonly referred to as ADHD. ADHD is a medical condition that is categorized by complications with inattentiveness or hyperactivity and impulsivity. However, these indicators must be severe enough to cause glitches with daily functioning in two of the following places: at home, in school, in the community or in the workplace. Sufferers of the disorder tend to have greater risks for other psychiatric and behavioral disorders. ADHD use to be thought of as a childhood disorder, however, more research shows that ADHD continues into adolescence and also into adulthood. ADHD can have serious effects on a person’s quality of life; Socialization, school performance, and behavior are some of the areas in which children and adolescents have problems. Problems effecting adults can be seen in college, in the work force, and in social relationships. One person’s inability to perform as well as others can lead to complications with self-esteem, anxiety and depression.

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), once called hyperkinesis or minimal brain dysfunction, affects about two trillion American teenagers. ADHD was more common in boys; however the disorder is becoming more common in girls. By the time a child reaches adolescence, the symptoms of ADHD seem to vanish. With some adolescence, though, the symptoms exist with some other delinquent behaviors. Teens with ADHD display signs generally associated with typical teenagers. Conversely, some signs expressed by a teenager with ADHD are more persistent, extreme and outside of the teens control. Teens with ADHD have a harder time focusing on one assignment for a short period of time without getting bored or distracted. As a result of these...

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...nruly conduct. ADHD can be a lifelong disorder for some teenagers and can be treated with medications and also many types of therapy. Parents and teens also need to be mindful of the short term and long term effects of each medication along with the side effects. If a child is diagnosed with the disorder early in life, the disorder can be well managed and he or she can live a life that is productive, successful and fulfilling. Not only does ADHD affect the adolescent, but also has a strong effect on the teen’s parents. Parents of teenagers with ADHD need to be an advocate for their child and make sure their child is receiving the best that can be provided.

Works Cited

Pruitt, D. B. (1999). Your Adolescent. (pp. 72-87, 128-140, 222-236). New York: HarperCollins Publishers. Retrieved from http://www.harpercollins.com/browseinside/index.aspx?isbn13=9780060956769

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