ENG-105: Topic 6 First Draft Of A Commentary Assignment Paper
ENG-105: Topic 6 First Draft Of A Commentary Assignment Paper
ENG-105: Topic 6 First Draft Of A Commentary Assignment Paper
Increase in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Diagnoses
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Increase in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Diagnoses
Over the last century, the diagnosis of ADHD has been surrounded by controversy, with some specialists curious whether it is a true condition or merely a representation of other underlying disorders (Magnus et al., 2022). Nonetheless, during the last several decades, a scientific consensus has emerged about the presence of ADHD and the symptoms and indicators that define it. ADHD is now commonly recognized as a neurodevelopmental condition marked by symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. The ADHD diagnostic criteria have been changed throughout time, with the most recent revisions coming in 2013 with the publishing of the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) (Magnus et al., 2022). These improvements have aided in clarifying the diagnostic criteria for ADHD and ensuring that the diagnosis is based on objective criteria.
According to Morabito (2022), before the advent of social media, the number of ADHD diagnoses and prescriptions has risen across all age groups. The frequency of ADHD diagnoses in 2010 was nearly five times higher than in 1999 (Morabito, 2022). Between 2007 and 2016, the number of people diagnosed with ADHD more than doubled. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) reported a 5% prevalence rate in 2013, of ADHD, according to (CHADD, 2019). Nevertheless, more recent research estimates the prevalence rate to be 9.4 percent. This is based on the Redesigned National Survey of Children’s Health, a telephone survey of parents with children aged 2 to 17 (CHADD, 2019). The prevalence rate is currently projected to be 10.2 percent, according to the 2018 report (CHADD, 2019). It is estimated that 5% to 7.2% of children and 2.5% to 6.7% of adults globally are affected by ADHD. The prevalence of ADHD is higher in the United States, with recent estimates estimating that 8.7% of children, or 5.3 million, have the disorder.
ADHD was first characterized as minimal brain malfunction’ in the 1930s and has subsequently been renamed ADD (attention deficit disorder) and ADHD. Its incidence has risen over time, with a possible peak in the 1950s as children’s education grew more standardized (Magnus et al., 2022). The symptoms frequently appear at an early age and include a lack of attention, focus, disorganization, trouble completing activities, forgetfulness, and losing items. To be diagnosed with ‘ADHD,’ these symptoms must be present before the age of 12, endure six months, and interfere with everyday living activities (Abdelnour et al., 2022). These must be present in several settings (home and school, or school and after-school activities). It can have serious repercussions, such as decreased social contact, increased risky conduct, job loss, and difficulty attaining academic success. These primary symptoms may be absent in adulthood, and they may emerge as different issues, such as procrastination, emotional instability, and low self-esteem.
Once the hyperactive symptoms are better managed, they will likely be more impulsive or inattentive. Although ADHD was once assumed to be a childhood disorder, it is now known that up to 90% of children with ADHD continue to exhibit symptoms into adulthood. By taking a proper history of childhood, symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity are likely to be elicited yet may be ignored (Abdelnour et al., 2022). ADHD impairs functioning and growth. This can include individuals who do not work and is sometimes overlooked in this demographic. While establishing a diagnosis, it is critical to keep this in mind.
Increased understanding and acknowledgment of ADHD by healthcare providers, educators, and parents is one likely explanation for the increase in ADHD diagnoses. When more knowledge concerning the symptoms of ADHD and the impact it can have on people’s lives becomes accessible, there may be greater attention devoted to the illness, leading to a more accurate diagnosis (Abdelnour et al., 2022). Changes in diagnostic criteria might also play a role. The diagnostic criteria for ADHD have been changed throughout time, with the most recent modifications being in 2013. These improvements may have made it simpler to recognize and diagnose ADHD, which has increased the frequency of diagnoses. There may also be socioeconomic and cultural factors leading to the increase in ADHD diagnosis. Some studies believe that changes in children’s education, such as a greater emphasis on academic accomplishment and less time for play, are leading to a rise in ADHD diagnoses. Furthermore, some have speculated that changes in the food supply or exposure to environmental pollutants may contribute to the increase in ADHD diagnoses.
One pattern of significance in the ADHD trend is that the disorder’s diagnosis has increased during the last few decades. This might be attributed to better knowledge and awareness of ADHD, as well as modifications in diagnostic criteria and increased access to healthcare (Abdelnour et al., 2022). Yet, other studies believe that environmental variables, such as pollutants or specific types of food, may contribute to the development of ADHD.
The growing recognition and understanding of ADHD) has both beneficial and negative implications. On the plus side, growing awareness of ADHD has resulted in more people obtaining proper diagnosis and treatment for the illness. This can assist in enhancing their quality of life and lessen the impact of ADHD on their academic or occupational performance, relationships, and general well-being. Also, greater awareness of ADHD has aided in reducing stigma and improving public opinion of the illness (Magnus et al., 2022). However, there are some possible drawbacks to this tendency. For example, Abdelnour et al. (2022) note an increased tendency to overdiagnose and overtreat ADHD in some circumstances, particularly in specific demographics, such as young children. This might result in the needless use of drugs and other treatments, which can have negative consequences and hazards. Additionally, while increasing awareness and knowledge of ADHD is usually helpful, more study is needed to better understand the disorder’s origins and underlying mechanisms. This can aid in the improvement of diagnosis and treatment procedures, as well as the identification of prospective preventative initiatives.
References
Abdelnour, E., Jansen, M. O., & Gold, J. A. (2022). ADHD diagnostic trends: Increased recognition or overdiagnosis? Missouri Medicine, 119(5), 467–473. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/36337990
CHADD. (2019). Is there an increase in ADHD? CHADD. https://chadd.org/adhd-weekly/is-there-an-increase-in-adhd/
Magnus, W., Nazir, S., Anilkumar, A. C., & Shaban, K. (2022). Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441838/
Morabito, C. (2022, December 7). Skyrocketing demand for ADHD meds is straining the U.S. health care system. CNBC. https://www.cnbc.com/2022/12/07/adhd-medication-demand-us-healthcare.html
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For this assignment, write a 750-1,000-word commentary that addresses a trend/topic related to ADHD.
This means that your essay should review a single trend related to ADHD. For instance, you could analyze one of the following trends (you are not limited to this list; these are suggestions):
- Increase in ADHD Diagnoses
- Impact of ADHD on a Child’s Schooling
- Impact of New ADHD Treatments
- Hidden Dangers of ADHD Medications
- The Reasoning Behind ADHD Awareness Week
- ADHD and the Zombie Phenomenon
- ADHD Drug Overdoses
This essay is NOT a summary of several different elements of ADHD. Rather, it is an analysis of a single trend related to ADHD, including various elements of that single trend.
Your review should include at least five scholarly sources outside of class texts. Directions
- Label or Identify the Subject: Provide the name for the trend and provide some context or background for the subject.
- Explain the Subject: Find a pattern of meaning in the trend (e.g., speculate as to causes and effects of an event, compare with a similar case, or offer an example).
- Make a Judgment/Offer an Opinion: Evaluate the trend using third person; offer praise or critique the trend, offering evidence to support your claims.
In-text citation resources not older than 5 years, time-sensitive, similarity score lower than 10%.
