Special Needs

Introduction

ADHD, or Attention Deficit – Hyperactivity Disorder, is a diagnostic term that describes a diverse group of children who have problems with inattention, distractibility, and in many cases, impulsivity and hyperactivity. ADHD is an invisible, hidden disability in that no unique physical characteristics and no definitive psychological or physiological tests differentiating these children from others. However, ADHD is not hard to spot in the classroom.

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) may be considered a milder spectrum of this disorder, and includes a short concentration span but without the more severe manifestations of hyperactivity behaviour.
In the past few years, awareness of this disability has significantly increased along with successful intervention plans for students who struggle with it.

History

Hyperactive behaviour is a condition which can be traced back to ancient times. Research into this condition was first documented in the early 1900s by the English physician, George Still. He related the behaviour to brain problems rather than moral failings. ADHD was first described by Dr. Heinrich Hoffman in 1845. It was not until research into this condition was first documented in the early 1900s by the English physician, George Frederic Still.

During the 20th Century, many labels and definitions of the disorder have come and gone. Current diagnostic changes have revolved around delineating the disorder according to whether the symptom of inattention exists with or without the symptom of hyperactivity.