Attention Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (and the companion Attention Deficit Disorder) is a medical condition caused by a malfunction in the frontal lobe of the brain affecting the regulation of attention, impulsivity and motor activity. It can only be diagnosed by a medical practitioner. It is a lifelong condition though symptoms can vary as the sufferer grows older. It is probably inherited and is neither influenced by intelligence nor caused by poor parenting. Some pupils are prescribed medication but there can be side effects such as sleeplessness and loss of appetite
Difficulties
• impulsive/inappropriate behaviour
• poor concentration/attention span
• constantly fidgeting/idly daydreaming
• appears clumsy
• may not respond to punishment or reward
• unable to see consequences of actions
• speech and language difficulties and/or specific learning difficulties
• disorganised
• low self-esteem
Support Strategies
Ensure that
• pupil is seated near front of room or at teacher's desk
• pupil is seated away from windows and doors
• environment is calm and accepting
• routines are established and adhered to
• all adults involved adopt a consistent approach
• trigger situations are identified and avoided
• prompt, positive feedback is given
• tasks are varied with desk work followed by physical activity
• focus is on one unacceptable behaviour at a time
• targets are achievable/instructions are simple and specific
• opportunities for time-out exist
• ICT is used to help improve self-esteem, concentration and on-task time
Additional Information
• if a pupil is on medication, attentiveness will lessen as medication wears off, so arrange tasks with this in mind
• make explicit that it is the behaviour, not the pupil, that is being rejected
• good home-school liaison is important
Recommended
Cooper, P
and Ideus, K (1996) Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity
Disorder: A Practical Guide for Teachers,
Crompton,
J (1997) Children with Attentional Difficulties, A Guide for Teachers, Desktop Publications,
Web Site
ADDNet