Member-only story

ADHD in Adolescents: Development, Assessment, and Treatment

Rodney Parker

·8.2k Followers· Follow

Published in ADHD In Adolescents: Development Assessment And Treatment

6 min read · 1 week before

321 View Claps

47 Respond

Save

Listen

ADHD in Adolescents: Development, Assessment, and Treatment

by Stephen P. Becker

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2054 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	426 pages

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity DisFree Download (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental condition that affects millions of children and adolescents. ADHD is characterized by a persistent pattern of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interferes with daily functioning.

ADHD can have a significant impact on an adolescent's academic, social, and emotional development. Adolescents with ADHD may struggle with paying attention in school, completing assignments, and following instructions. They may also be more likely to engage in risky behaviors, such as substance abuse and unprotected sex.

Early diagnosis and treatment of ADHD is essential to help adolescents reach their full potential. With the right treatment, adolescents with ADHD can learn to manage their symptoms and live fulfilling lives.

Development of ADHD

ADHD is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Studies have shown that ADHD runs in families, and that children with a parent or sibling with ADHD are more likely to develop the condition.

Environmental factors, such as exposure to lead or tobacco smoke, may also play a role in the development of ADHD. Premature birth and low birth weight have also been linked to an increased risk of ADHD.

ADHD typically emerges in early childhood, between the ages of 3 and 6. However, it can also develop later in adolescence or adulthood.

Symptoms of ADHD

The symptoms of ADHD can vary from person to person. However, the core symptoms of ADHD include:

Inattention: Adolescents with ADHD may have difficulty paying attention in school, completing assignments, and following instructions. They may also be easily distracted and forgetful.
Hyperactivity: Adolescents with ADHD may be excessively active and restless. They may have difficulty sitting still, fidgeting, and talking excessively.
Impulsivity: Adolescents with ADHD may act without thinking. They may be impulsive, interrupting others, and making careless mistakes.

In addition to the core symptoms of ADHD, adolescents with ADHD may also experience other problems, such as:

Academic difficulties: Adolescents with ADHD may struggle with reading, writing, and math. They may also have difficulty following instructions and completing assignments.
Social problems: Adolescents with ADHD may have difficulty making and keeping friends. They may be seen as being disruptive or annoying by their peers.
Emotional problems: Adolescents with ADHD may experience anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. They may also be more likely to engage in risky behaviors, such as substance abuse and unprotected sex.

Assessment of ADHD

The diagnosis of ADHD is made based on a comprehensive evaluation by a qualified mental health professional. The evaluation will typically include a review of the adolescent's symptoms, a physical examination, and a psychological evaluation.

The psychological evaluation will assess the adolescent's attention, behavior, and emotional functioning. The evaluator will also interview the adolescent and their parents or guardians to gather information about the adolescent's symptoms and their impact on daily functioning.

In some cases, the evaluator may also recommend additional testing, such as an electroencephalogram (EEG) or a neuropsychological evaluation.

Treatment of ADHD

The treatment of ADHD typically involves a combination of medication and behavioral therapy. Medication can help to reduce the symptoms of ADHD, while behavioral therapy can help adolescents to learn how to manage their symptoms and improve their functioning.

Medication: The most common medications used to treat ADHD are stimulants, such as methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamine/dextroamphetamine (Adderall). Stimulants work by increasing the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which can help to improve attention and focus.

Other medications that may be used to treat ADHD include nonstimulants, such as atomoxetine (Strattera) and guanfacine (Tenex). Nonstimulants work by increasing the levels of norepinephrine in the brain, which can also help to improve attention and focus.

Behavioral therapy: Behavioral therapy can help adolescents to learn how to manage their symptoms and improve their functioning. Behavioral therapy techniques that may be used to treat ADHD include:

Parent training: Parent training can help parents to learn how to manage their child's symptoms at home. Parents may learn how to set clear limits, reward positive behavior, and ignore negative behavior.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT can help adolescents to learn how to identify and change negative thoughts and behaviors. CBT can also help adolescents to develop coping mechanisms for dealing with stress and anxiety.
Social skills training: Social skills training can help adolescents to learn how to make and keep friends, and how to resolve conflicts peacefully.

The treatment of ADHD is individualized, and the best treatment plan will vary depending on the adolescent's individual needs. It is important to work with a qualified mental health professional to develop a treatment plan that is right for the adolescent.

ADHD is a common neurodevelopmental condition that can have a significant impact on an adolescent's academic, social, and emotional development. Early diagnosis and treatment of ADHD is essential to help adolescents reach their full potential. With the right treatment, adolescents with ADHD can learn to manage their symptoms and live fulfilling lives.

ADHD in Adolescents: Development, Assessment, and Treatment

by Stephen P. Becker

4.8 out of 5