Research has shown that a “lack of consistent evaluation and oversight, and ease of publication, have led to inaccurate health-related publications on this new mass medium, causing concern for health education professionals” (Dorman & Pealer, 1997, p. 232). With the superfluous amount of websites on ADHD, it is vital to review the websites before using the information they contain. The Child Mind Institute’s website, www.childmind.org, contains information on childhood mental illnesses and disorders. Within each disorder, including ADHD, a detailed definition of the disorder, diagnosis information, treatment options, and help for families is provided. A quality review of www.childmind.org is accomplished through the verification of authority,
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To determine objectivity, it is crucial that a website does not use opinions, remains unbiased, and is not a covert way of advertising a product or idea. This organization claims that it “is committed to finding more effective treatments for childhood psychiatric and learning disorders, building the science of healthy brain development, and empowering children and their families with help, hope, and answers” (The Child Mind Institute, 2015, para. 1). Their goal shows no bias or ulterior motive. According to a study of websites, “Practitioners are encouraged to inform patients about the bias inherent in industry-sponsored websites and to recommend, instead, more balanced websites that present a range of evidence-based information about causes and treatments” (Cain & Read, 2013, para. 5). This recommendation is relevant to anyone seeking information on mental and medical conditions or disorders. The Child Mind Institute also clearly states, on their ‘About Us’ page, that they do not accept any funds from anyone in the pharmaceutical industry (2015). Throughout the portions of their website about ADHD, an abundance of detailed information is given through articles, blogs, and videos. By clearly stating their goals, refusing pharmaceutical funding, and giving detailed information, The Child Mind Institute shows its objectivity on the topic of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity
To determine objectivity, it is crucial that a website does not use opinions, remains unbiased, and is not a covert way of advertising a product or idea. This organization claims that it “is committed to finding more effective treatments for childhood psychiatric and learning disorders, building the science of healthy brain development, and empowering children and their families with help, hope, and answers” (The Child Mind Institute, 2015, para. 1). Their goal shows no bias or ulterior motive. According to a study of websites, “Practitioners are encouraged to inform patients about the bias inherent in industry-sponsored websites and to recommend, instead, more balanced websites that present a range of evidence-based information about causes and treatments” (Cain & Read, 2013, para. 5). This recommendation is relevant to anyone seeking information on mental and medical conditions or disorders. The Child Mind Institute also clearly states, on their ‘About Us’ page, that they do not accept any funds from anyone in the pharmaceutical industry (2015). Throughout the portions of their website about ADHD, an abundance of detailed information is given through articles, blogs, and videos. By clearly stating their goals, refusing pharmaceutical funding, and giving detailed information, The Child Mind Institute shows its objectivity on the topic of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity