Attention Deficit Disorder

Elizabeth Levin is a psychology professor at Laurentian University.

This book is a brief, easy-to-read layperson’s introduction to
attention deficit disorder (ADD). Written for parents, the guide
presents the most up-to-date information on ADD in an unbiased way,
enabling parents to make better-informed treatment decisions for their
children.

The book begins with a disorganized two-page historical review of
unconnected thoughts (which ought to be omitted since the relevant
points are covered later in the text) and ends with a brief look at
outcome studies and the fate of adults previously diagnosed as ADD
children. The 10 chapters in between look at the definition, prevalence,
diagnosis, and causes of ADD; discuss several suspected causes of ADD;
point out the possible role of diet in hyperactivity (which includes a
valuable lesson on the role of the scientific method and the problems of
anecdotal evidence); consider the value of a diagnostic team and the
roles of various professionals; explore various treatment approaches,
including drugs, behavior therapy, and classroom management (drug
therapy is viewed as the most effective approach when used in
conjunction with behavioral management, yet respect is shown for both
parents and adolescents who may choose to forgo drug therapy); and
provide a brief description of the special concerns of adolescents with
ADD (this is perhaps more useful as a guide for what to expect as
children develop rather than as a resource for a parent of an
adolescent).

Overall, both parents and teachers will find this an accurate and
concise review of ADD, and parents should feel empowered by their
knowledge when dealing with various professionals.