DIAGNOSIS ADD ADHD Now What?
Published 10th, 20th & 30th of each month -- USUALLY
** PLEASE SEE DISCLAIMER AT THE END OF THIS DOCUMENT! **
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Copied from the following website:
http://www.psychiatry24x7.com/bgdisplay.jhtml?itemname=p_wt20024105&_requestid=966545
HOW
PARENTS PERCEIVE
ADOLESCENTS WITH ADHD
Brook U, Boaz M. Attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder/learning disabilities (ADHD/LD): parental characterization and perception. Patient Education and Counseling 2005;57:96-100.
Investigators evaluated the perceptions, hopes and fears of parents of adolescents with ADHD who attended special classes. According to the parents' reports, co-morbidity was very high, with at least 70% of the adolescents also suffering from emotional lability and depression, 67% oppositional defiant disorder, and 44% obsessive-compulsive disorder. Moreover, aggressive talking by their youngsters in stress situations was reported by 71% of parents, aggressive and threatening behaviour by 62% and addiction to buying by 44%. According to parents, a significant number of adolescents expressed thoughts of suicide (reported by about 4 in 10 parents). Suicide attempts had been undertaken by almost 1 out of 10 adolescents.
The adolescents' characteristic scoring lowest by parents was self-esteem, receiving only 3.8 on 10 points. This characteristic scored lower than sociability and friendliness (5.9) and intense disputes with parents (7.1).
Among learning disabilities, parents often identified reading problems (79%, particularly also dyslexia), writing problems (80%) and mathematics (dyscalculia in 68%). Problems with foreign languages and fine motor skills each were reported in over 50% of adolescents.
Eighty two percent of parents perceived their child's impulsivity as the most difficult aspect of ADHD to live with. Parent felt their children were not enough understood and followed up by their teachers. They hoped for yearly evaluations of their child's handicap in the future. Parents were also often subjected to criticism by other parents or teachers - not being able to educate their children. They further reported to experience regularly financial difficulties (65% of parents).
Surprisingly, however, only 30% had ever been treated with stimulants in the past.
In conclusion, parents of adolescents with ADHD perceive the lack of self-image of their child as the major problem. Comorbidity and undertreatment appear to be common.
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My comments below --BJ
IT'S YOUR CHOICE
Realize parents perceive low self-image as their child's major problem. These kids need success in their lives in order to enhance their self-esteem. Parents suffer from feelings of shame, guilt, anger and helplessness in dealing with adolescent ADDers. As teachers, friends and parents, don't be too quick to judge loving caring parents dealing with a difficult situation.
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DISCLAIMER
This information is for educational purposes only. Much of the information is from classes and workshops I’ve taken during my 33 years of working with ADD & ADHD students – sprinkled with my own comments, thoughts and insights.
Some information has been acquired from the INTERNET. Be aware that not all information on the WWW is accurate. Use your own judgment.
This information is not intended to replace information from your doctor, therapist, lawyer, psychologist, nutritionist or psychiatrist. Consult your child’s (or your own) doctor for additional input
Editor: BJ Madewell
Wichita, KS area
316-733-9532
FAX not available
Email ADDchoices@aol.com or ADDchoices@yahoo.com