Attention Deficit Disorder...What is A.D.D.?
by Janine Marek, LPC
Contact Info:
560 W. Main Street, Suite 102
Lewisville, Texas 75057
Phone: (972) 434-4048
Attention Deficit Disorder reflects an individual's inborn, neurological based temperament generally characterized by distractibility, impulsivity, hyperactivity (in many children), selective attention and academic under-achievement. Problems with focus and concentration, mood, sleep, learning and memory may also appear more frequently with individual's who have attention deficit disorder.
Attention Deficit Disorder is not a deficit in attention. Sometimes an individual with Attention Deficit Disorder pays more attention to certain topics that "catch their interest" and less attention to things they find "boring".
Approximately 2 million school-aged children in the U.S. (5 percent) are affected; boys outnumbering girls 3:1. Research studies have found there is a "genetic component" with approximately 25% of first-degree relatives of children with A.D.D. having similar challenges.
Diagnosis of A.D.D. is based on observations made by parents, teachers and A.D.D. professionals. A Test of Variables of Attention (TOVA) is an objective, standardized and highly accurate computerized visual continuous performance test used by professionals to help indicate whether there are attention problems in the child or adult. With this test, the A.D.D. professional can screen for disorders of attention, measure medication response, assess attention in neuropsychological and neuropsychiatric evaluations as well as monitor treatment over time.
Research has demonstrated that individuals with A.D.D. show an identifiable brain-wave pattern represented by an abundance of delta/theta EEG activity (slow waves in 2-8 Hz range) in the central, parietal and frontal regions of the brain, as well as an under arousal of SMR/beta brain-wave activity in the (12-18 Hz range) in the temporal region.
A cognitive-behavioral approach to managing A.D.D. empowers the individual to learn how to shift the way he pays attention. After more than 30 years of research in university labs, the development of EEG Neurofeedback training helps the individual produce a mental state appropriate to their situational requirements.
This new approach to managing A.D.D. uses a powerful form of biofeedback. This technique uses extremely sensitive instrumentation that provides the individual with auditory and visual feedback to help shape brain-wave changes and aid in the client's satisfactory cognitive development.
Some parents are reluctant to use current drugs on the market such as Ritalin to manage their child's behavior or learning. Ritalin is a chemical stimulant used to increase the secretion of neurotransmitters in the brain helping to arouse learning and behavior control centers so the child can pay attention and control inappropriate behavior.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a multimodal approach to treating A.D.D. Safe alternative treatments for behavior and learning include behavior modification, counseling, increased structure, proper classroom placement and physical education. All these area should be explored with the child's physician and other professionals to determine the best approach to treatment.
To learn more about Janine Marek, LPC and her practice specialties click here
Contact Info:
Janine Marek, LPC
560 W. Main Street, Suite 102
Lewisville, Texas 75057
Phone: (972) 434-4048
