In the United States, there are currently 10-12 million children diagnosed with attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); making it the most common psychiatric illness among children and adolescents (Stolzer, 2012, p. 5). According to Vitiello et al. (2015), this disorder is typically first diagnosed and treated once the child enters elementary school. Most of these children are prescribed stimulant medication such as, Ritalin and Adderall, to help cope with the struggles of this disorder. According to the DSM-5 manual (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders), the diagnosis criterion for ADHD include inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness (“ADHD Educational Institute,” n.d.). Hinshaw and Arnold (2015) outline the negative impacts that ADHD can have on an individual.
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Children diagnosed with ADHD are also unable to succeed in developmental aspects relating to self-regulation, inhibitory control, working memory and planning (Hinshaw & Arnold, 2015, p. 41). If children with ADHD continue life without medication they are at risk for academic underachievement, substance abuse, delinquency, poor relationship functioning, and self-injurious behavior throughout adolescence and adulthood. Specific demands in life can influence a greater need to help control the symptoms of ADHD such as, family interactions, school responsibilities, vocational settings and intimate relationships (Hinshaw & Arnold, 2015, p. 41). Along with the continuous, daily struggle these children must overcome, for most, ADHD is a lifelong persistent disorder. As stated by Visser et al. (2014), “approximately one-third of children diagnosed with ADHD retain the diagnosis into adulthood, supporting the recognition of ADHD as a chronic health
Children diagnosed with ADHD are also unable to succeed in developmental aspects relating to self-regulation, inhibitory control, working memory and planning (Hinshaw & Arnold, 2015, p. 41). If children with ADHD continue life without medication they are at risk for academic underachievement, substance abuse, delinquency, poor relationship functioning, and self-injurious behavior throughout adolescence and adulthood. Specific demands in life can influence a greater need to help control the symptoms of ADHD such as, family interactions, school responsibilities, vocational settings and intimate relationships (Hinshaw & Arnold, 2015, p. 41). Along with the continuous, daily struggle these children must overcome, for most, ADHD is a lifelong persistent disorder. As stated by Visser et al. (2014), “approximately one-third of children diagnosed with ADHD retain the diagnosis into adulthood, supporting the recognition of ADHD as a chronic health