The Cause Of Psychoactive Disorder (ADHD)

For the most part, the cause of ADHD is still unknown. While scientists believe there is a genetic factor, environmental issues may also play a role. International research on twins with ADHD indicates that it occurs in family members often. Identical twins are at an extremely high rate of having ADHD is their twin also has it. Fraternal twins have an almost 40% likelihood of having the disorder if their womb partner also does. Siblings of adolescents with ADHD are also more likely to have ADHD, than those who don’t have brothers or sisters with ADHD. Adoption studies show children share instances of ADHD according to their biological family history. Adolescents whose mother’s smoked tobacco or drank alcohol during pregnancy show signs of …show more content…
Adolescents and adults with ADHD indicate high rates of nicotine dependence. Rates of alcohol and cocaine abuse or dependence are double that of adolescents without ADHD, and marijuana use is one and a half times as likely. While many adolescents are at risk for developing substance abuse disorders, those with ADHD display significantly higher rates. Dr. Sheryl Ryan from the American Academy of Pediatrics states, an “important part of ADHD treatment and stimulant medication management includes screening for SUDs and providing anticipatory guidance around the appropriate and safe use of stimulant medications.” Educating adolescents and parents of these risks, and close monitoring by their doctors is important to help lower individual risk for substance abuse disorders (Brooks, …show more content…
These are also typical behaviors of normally developing adolescents. Some adolescents can’t control these behaviors and their lives are negatively impacted by them because they suffer from ADHD. Proper diagnosis from a licensed professional is needed to help those who are afflicted. With treatment, including medication, behavioral interventions, and education, adolescents can function well in their daily activities. They become able to focus on mental tasks, learn organizational and social skills, and effectively manage their disorder. While over diagnosis does occur, treatment allows many adolescents to become productive members of society. As with all adolescents, risk of substance abuse is common. Strong support systems are needed to guide adolescents with or without ADHD through this developmental period. While genetics play a factor in ADHD, the exact cause is still unknown. More research and testing will likely provide an answer in the near