GENERAL COURSE DESCRIPTION

This intermediate-level course will give an overview of the current perspectives on Attention Deficit- Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). At this time, there is a significant body of research that supports a genetic link for ADHD and positive response to both behavioral and pharmacological interventions. There is also a body of research that argues that ADHD, as a diagnosis, is nothing more than a fad that supports poor behavior in those with the diagnosis. This course is designed to engage the reader in careful consideration of the materials in order to formulate his or her own opinion with regards to this disorder.

The course is comprised of seven articles. The first article provides a summative account of ADHD. The article identifies common symptoms of ADHD, the criteria required for diagnosis of the disorder, the prevalence of ADHD, comorbidity and etiology. The second article reviews the most current research from the field of Neurology regarding ADHD. The third article reviews current pharmacological approaches to ADHD and the fourth article reviews behavioral and psychological interventions for those with ADHD. The fifth article introduces the possibility that ADHD is nothing more than fad or misdiagnosis. The next article also support the contention that ADHD is a clinical hoax. Finally, resources on both sides of the fence.