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The Politics of ADHD

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 October 2015

D. J. Mellor ,
S.P. Storer  and
J. Brown
D. J. Mellor*
Affiliation:
School of Psychology, Deakin University, Burwood Victoria
S.P. Storer
Affiliation:
Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service, Glenelg Psychiatric Services, Warrnambool and District Base Hospital
J. Brown
Affiliation:
Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service, Glenelg Psychiatric Services, Warrnambool and District Base Hospital
*
School of Psychology, Deakin University, Burwood Victoria 3125, Phone: (03) 924 43742, Fax: (03) 924 46858, Email: mellor@deakin.edu.au
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Abstract

This paper reviews some issues related to the doubts and complexities involved in diagnosis and treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. While some writers claim that it is clear that all children presenting with ADHD should be treated by pharmacological means, there are associated risks and politics. However, in the absence of well-established and research-supported alternative understandings of the etiology and treatment of the disorder, many practitioners feel unable to offer a useful service. Resulting frustrations have lead some parents to form their own support networks, which make strong demands for increased services. More creative and innovative therapeutic interventions focusing on the broader impact of ADHD must be developed to deal with this disorder.

Keywords

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity DisorderDiagnosisTreatmentPolitics
Type
Research Article
Information
The Educational and Developmental Psychologist , Volume 13 , Issue 1: Special Double Issue: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder , May 1996 , pp. 40 - 45
Copyright
Copyright © Australian Psychological Society 1996

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References

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