The number of attention-deficit / hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnoses in America has increased significantly over recent years and, along with the higher number of diagnoses, is the dramatic surge in prescription medication as treatment. However, a growing number of experts argue that ADHD is a behavioral issue, not a disease. Furthermore, these experts agree that alternatives to prescribing medication to alter a child’s behavior exists, and that parents, teachers, and doctors need to determine and find a resolution to the root cause of the negative behavior. Medication is not a cure for ADHD and does not solve the issues that create negative behavior – alternative, effective approaches to drugs are available to modify children’s troublesome behaviors.
What is ADHD? It is a compilation of symptoms labeled by some medical professionals as a …show more content…
Creating a proper environment is, according to psychologist Frank Lawlis, “. . . is a safer and healthier long-term option” (cite). Forming a suitable, structured environment would be one alternative to drugs as a method of treatment for ADHD. In chapter five of Buttross’ book, “Creating the Right Environment”, she points out that “Design of the right environment requires appropriate arrangement of the physical space, clearly stated expectations, and recognition of successes as they occur so that the desired behaviors are reinforced” (97). One way that schools can help improve the atmosphere for learning when behavioral issues arise in the classroom is to reinstate the recess period. Physical activity is an excellent manner in which to burn off excess energy and if children have the opportunity to release pent up energy, they will be more likely to pay attention and focus in
What is ADHD? It is a compilation of symptoms labeled by some medical professionals as a …show more content…
Creating a proper environment is, according to psychologist Frank Lawlis, “. . . is a safer and healthier long-term option” (cite). Forming a suitable, structured environment would be one alternative to drugs as a method of treatment for ADHD. In chapter five of Buttross’ book, “Creating the Right Environment”, she points out that “Design of the right environment requires appropriate arrangement of the physical space, clearly stated expectations, and recognition of successes as they occur so that the desired behaviors are reinforced” (97). One way that schools can help improve the atmosphere for learning when behavioral issues arise in the classroom is to reinstate the recess period. Physical activity is an excellent manner in which to burn off excess energy and if children have the opportunity to release pent up energy, they will be more likely to pay attention and focus in