Attention Deficit Disorder is considered to be a Neurobiological or Neurochemical Disorder, as evidenced by the following:

o PET Scan (Positron Emission Tomography)

o Computerized EEG Brain Waves

o SPECT studies, 3D pictures of the cortex and deeper structures of the brain that show blood flow and indicate brain metabolism

o fMRI Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Results of the studies show decreased brain activity (less metabolic activity) in the frontal lobes in response to intellectual activity.

Observation: Some individuals with ADHD seek to stimulate their brains by movement because it helps them concentrate.

Types:

Inattention

Impulsivity

Hyperactivity

Challenges for individuals according to type:

Inattentive Type

Paying close attention to details

Sustaining attention in work tasks

Easily distracted by noise, events, etc.

Difficulty listening when spoken to directly

Daydream a lot

Impulsive Type

Blurt out comments and interrupt

Decide or purchase impulsively

Tendency toward addictions

Hyperactive Type

Fidgety and squirmy

Feel restless inside

Driven, on the go, all the time

Talk excessively

Take risks

Research Tidbits:

MedLinePlus Health Information This page links to many medically-based descriptions of attention deficit disorder and research summaries.

Research from Kathy Nunley's online newsletter:
(Dec. '05) A recent article by leading Harvard Medical School experts summarizes the most up-to-date research and understanding of ADHD (attention deficit / hyperactivity disorder):
The disorder affects about 10% of all children worldwide. About one-half of the children with ADHD will continue to have some type of impairment from it through adulthood. Genetic studies have shown it to be highly heritable and while heredity seems to be the leading cause, some pre-natal and even early childhood events can also be linked to ADHD.
From a molecular standpoint, research points to catecholaminergic circuits and impaired transmission of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Research in treatments has shown both non-stimulant and long-acting traditional treatments such as methylphenidate (Ritalin) to be safe and effective, especially when coupled with behavioral interventions and treatment. Biederman, J. & Faraone, S. (2005). Lancet. Vol 366 (9481) 237-248.

(Aug. '03) Research usually shows there is no gender difference in ADHD, although females are often ignored and undiagnosed, however "here is more research on the genetic side of ADHD as well as an interesting gender preference for inheriting the disorder.
Trinity College, Ireland, has found 3 genetic ties to ADHD, all having to do with dopamine levels. Dopamine receptors, the dopamine transporter genes and genes responsible for synthesis of dopamine are all linked to the disorder. The study also found that the ADHD responsible genes tend to come from the father's genetic make-up more so than the mother's genes. Kirley, A. et al. (2002). Neuropsychopharmacology, vol 27(4), 607-619."

To subscribe to Kathy Nunley's newsletter for educators, please visit the following:
http://help4teachers.com/newsletter.htm

Janet Zadina's Brain Research and Instruction website; newsletter available.

Dr. Amen's BrainPlace and Brain Spect Atlas website

Further Information:

For students: How to get support at college?

National Institute of Mental Health

Tips for teachers who work with students with ADHD.

Sandra Rief's Checklist for Teachers (all grades)

UCLA's Neuropsychiatric Institute, Center for Neurobehavioral Genetics, Dr. Susan Smalley, Researcher, is in charge of PARC, Program on ADHD and Related Conditions, has been identifying risk genes underlying ADHD. Dr. Smalley is conducting a research project on meditation as a way of dealing with ADHD. Please see contact information on this flyer if you know someone who may be interested in getting involved.

LDOnline article on the incidence of ADHD, according to a study performed by the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota.

Articles by Dr. Sam Goldstein, neuropsychiatrist, are available online, including a PPT presentation on "ADHD in Adults". Dr. Sam Goldstein describes ADHD as a disorder of efficiency and self-regulation rather than one of attention. You may subscribe to his newsletter with articles.

Print Resources on ADD/ADHD:

Amen, Daniel G., M.D. Windows into the A.D.D. Mind. Fairfield: Mindworks, 1997.

Hallowell, Edward M., M.D. and John J. Ratey, M.D. Driven to Distraction. New York: Pantheon, 1994.

Hartmann, Thom. Attention Deficit Disorder: A Different Perception - The "Hunter in a Farmer's World" Book. Novato: Underwood-Miller, 1993.

Rief, Sandra. The ADHD Book of Lists: A Practical Guide for Helping Children and Teens with Attention Deficit Disorders (2003) and The ADD/ADHD Checklist. Paramus: Prentice Hall, 1997. (My favorite book on ADHD.)

Rotz, Roland. Presentation slides from a workshop on ADD/ADHD. March 2000. Information was provided by Mary Lawson, LD Specialist in DSPS at SBCC. This is now available in his new book, Fidget to Focus.

Wender, Paul H., M.D. The Hyperactive Child, Adolescent, and Adult. New York: Oxford University Press, 1987.

Other Resources:

CHADD - Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Dr. Robert Brooks offers articles on Resilience, Self-Esteem, Motivation, and Family Relationships, many of which are very relevant to adults with ADHD. You may sign up to receive his articles through email.