Statistics show that as many as 4.4% of adults actually have some degree of Attention Deficit Disorder. Statistics show that people with this disorder are less likely to achieve academically and can have difficulty holding down long-term, full-time employment.
Attention deficit disorder, or ADD, is caused by problems in the brain’s dopamine neurotransmitter systems. The theory that this condition can be caused by poor diet has been disproven. Neither is it the result of bad parenting. Genetics are the biggest cause with most cases of ADD inherited from parents. A child is 30% more likely to exhibit the symptoms of ADD if a parent or close family member has the condition.
Its during childhood that the symptoms of ADD can become readily apparent. Child development traverses three distinct phases. The first stage occurs as babies when they start to focus on various objects around them. The object will engage their focus for a limited period of time.
The next stage takes place during the toddler years when they can’t seem to focus on anything for very long. If a child persists with this type of behaviour they’re likely to be diagnosed with ADD.
It’s the during the third stage that children develop the ability to focus for longer periods of time and to shift that focus at will. This ability is precisely what is required in the classroom.
A key aspect of ADD is not only that sufferers can’t concentrate on a topic or subject for very long. ADD sufferers lack the ability to choose what they focus upon and what attracts their attention. This can become very apparent when a child with ADD is required to undertake a routine task. If they need to wait then their attention can easily be drawn elsewhere.
In the ADD sufferers brain there is inadequate stimulus to release neuro chemicals and this forces them to look for something else. For them this is a reflex reaction that is outside their control.
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I hope that these brief notes have provided some insight into the causes of ADD. There are many forms of treatment including drugs, but one effective therapy involves a lot of outdoor activity. Bushcraft courses can be a great way to learn about the outdoors at any time of year. Just make sure you are wrapped up in some warm outdoor clothing and you take along a good sleeping bag.