ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Unfortunately, there are many misnomers that center around this diagnosis.
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Alright super sleuths, let’s dive and debunk some of these myths and mysteries surrounding ADHD.
MYTH #1 – ADHD isn’t a real medical disorder.
ADHD is recognized as a legitimate diagnosis by many major medical, psychological, and educational organizations such as the American Psychiatric Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the National Institutes of Health, and the U.S. Department of Education. That said, some still argue it is not a ‘real’ disorder.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, ADHD is a biological disorder that causes hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and attention problems. Additionally, about 2 million of the more than 6 million children with ADHD were diagnosed as young as 2-5 years of age.
MYTH #2 – ADHD is the result of bad parenting.
This is simply not the case. A variety of studies indicate the problem is rooted in brain chemistry, not discipline, according to attitudemag.com. When a child acts out it is not because he or she has been taught bad behaviors, it’s because he/she cannot control his/her impulses.
MYTH #3 – ADHD only affects boys.
According to the ADHD Institute, girls can also be diagnosed with ADHD. The symptoms experienced may differ depending on gender. ADHD girls may be up to twice as likely as boys to have the inattentive type of ADHD. They may suffer more from internalizing symptoms and inattention, whereas boys most commonly exhibit hyperactive and aggressive symptoms.
The Tuscarawas County Board of Developmental Disabilities (TuscBDD) has resources for children and adults with developmental disabilities. TuscBDD provides Early Intervention for children birth to three years old, Service and Support Administration for people of all ages, family support services, family mentorship, and more! To learn more about these services and others, visit TuscBDD online at www.tuscbdd.org or call (330) 308-7173.
Audrey Mattevi, Reporting
