Adult attention-deficit disorder

Adult attention deficit disorder (AADD) is the common terminology for the psychiatric condition currently known as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), also known as attention deficit disorder (ADD), when it occurs in adulthood. Although the exact prevalence in adults is unknown, epidemiologic studies thus far reveal that the condition, marked by inattentiveness, difficulty getting work done, procrastination, or organization problems, probably exists in about 2-4% of adults. The condition persists to adulthood in about half of children diagnosed with the disorder.

Controversy

While ADD/ADHD is a known psychiatric condition, there are various theories about the cause and some controversy over the number of persons diagnosed and the cost of medications.

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Hunter-versus-farmer theory

A broad theory, not necessarily in conflict with the current medical research findings, is the hunter vs. farmer theory, which holds that in some ways, some ADD attributes in some humans may be a form of environment adaption, or specialty. Under the theory, as civilized society evolved, the attributes of a hunter gave way to those of a farmer for most people as the survival skills needed changed. The hunter vs. farmer theory was first presented by Thom Hartmann, whose website describes him as "an internationally-known speaker on culture and communications, an author, and an innovator in the fields of psychiatry, ecology, and economics." http://www.thomhartmann.com/showbio.shtml

Related Topics:
Hunter vs. farmer theory - Thom Hartmann - Psychiatry

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ADD/ADHD a hoax?

There are some claims that ADD/ADHD is simply a hoax. Many of these charges are that there has been a conspiracy between medical and counseling professionals and the pharmaceutical companies, or that the former has been misled by the latter, which have profited greatly from the sale of medication such as Ritalin and Adderall, and have advertised their products extensively. Further, since medications became available there has been an increased number of persons diagnosed, though this might be explained by increased awareness.

Related Topics:
Ritalin - Adderall

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It has also been suggested that ADD/ADHD is actually a result of poor diet and other factors, rather than something inherent in sufferers. The study of changes in diets of children provide anecdotal and scientific evidence for this.

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However, the results achieved in clinical tests with medication and anecdotal evidence of parents, teachers, and both child and adult sufferers suggest there is both a condition, and a treatment for at least some.

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A further problem is that ADD and ADHD are syndromes, associations of symptoms. There is no well established cause for the condition. This means that it may actually be a blanket term covering a multitude of conditions with a variety of causes.

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Confusion may also arise from the fact ADD/ADHD symptom vary with each individual, and some mimic those of other causes. A known fact is that, as the body (and brain) matures and grows, the symptoms and adaptability of the individual also change. Many children diagnosed with ADD/AHDH seem to outgrow it as they mature. Clearly, other individuals experience the symptoms their entire lives.

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