Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Family Involvement and Management

Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a broad term that is used to describe a cluster of symptoms that comprise a neurodevelopmental disorder in which the child struggles to control impulses, manage behavior, and listen to directions. Steven Pliszka notes that it is not considered a disorder that can be directly attributed to other medical or psychiatric conditions, and it tends to cause impairment in social and academic functioning, especially if untreated. ADHD is included in this encyclopedia because it is one of the most commonly occurring pediatric disorders and likely to be treated by a primary care provider. It can also be treated in a variety settings including child guidance clinics and other outpatient mental health treatment environments. Treatment may include medication management, psychosocial interventions, ...