Behavioural problems are an important issue within the educational sector that draw attention from both the public and academic sphere. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a major concern for teachers as those affected can display behaviours that are distracting, aggressive, and unsocial. This essay will examine ADHD in relation to a New Zealand context. First, an outline of ADHD will be given that includes its prevalence, etiology, and presenting behaviours. Predominant diagnostic methods will be explained alongside typical treatment methodologies. A discussion will then follow on the political and cultural influences that dictate ideological trends of thinking on ADHD. It is concluded that while individual choice determines the type of analysis and treatment used by teachers and medical professionals on a micro level, subsequent political and cultural conditions dictate the overall accepted knowledge surrounding ADHD on a macro level.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction
- Prevalence
- Etiology
- Presenting Behaviours
- Diagnosis
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This essay aims to provide a critical analysis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in the context of New Zealand. The essay outlines the prevalence, etiology, and presenting behaviors of ADHD. It also explores the diagnostic methods and treatment approaches for the disorder. Furthermore, the essay examines the political and cultural influences that shape perceptions and understandings of ADHD.
- Prevalence of ADHD in New Zealand and internationally.
- Etiology of ADHD, including genetic, neurobiological, and environmental factors.
- Presenting behaviors of ADHD, including academic and social difficulties.
- Diagnostic methods for ADHD, focusing on the DSM-IV-TR criteria and differential diagnoses.
- Political and cultural influences on the understanding and treatment of ADHD.
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
- Introduction: The essay introduces ADHD as a significant issue in the educational sector, highlighting its prevalence, presenting behaviors, and the importance of understanding the disorder in a New Zealand context.
- Prevalence: This section discusses the prevalence of ADHD globally and in New Zealand, noting the significant discrepancies in reported rates. It emphasizes the challenges in accurately determining prevalence due to evolving diagnostic criteria, different diagnostic methods, and methodological issues.
- Etiology: This section explores the various factors that contribute to the development of ADHD, including genetic predispositions, neurobiological imbalances, and environmental influences. It also mentions potential nutritional deficiencies and viral infections as contributing factors, highlighting the multifactorial nature of ADHD.
- Presenting Behaviours: This section examines the typical behaviors associated with ADHD, focusing on both academic and social difficulties. It discusses the challenges faced by students with ADHD in areas like attention, learning, and task completion. It also explores the social challenges, including peer rejection, social isolation, and difficulties with social interactions.
- Diagnosis: This section details the diagnostic process for ADHD, outlining the DSM-IV-TR criteria and the different subtypes of the disorder. It discusses the challenges in accurately diagnosing ADHD during preschool years due to potential coexisting disorders and the importance of careful differential diagnoses. It also explores the role of teachers in identifying potential ADHD symptoms and the process of referral to specialists for further evaluation.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
This essay focuses on the following key terms and concepts: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), prevalence, etiology, presenting behaviors, diagnosis, DSM-IV-TR, differential diagnoses, New Zealand, political and cultural influences, and educational implications.
- Quote paper
- Lee Hooper (Author), 2013, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in New Zealand, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/262260
