The Myths and Misconceptions of ADHD

by Emily Suggs, LPC

For the month of August, the UDT blog is going to focus on helping families better understand one of the most prevalent chronic childhood disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, also known as ADHD.  During this month, several aspects of ADHD will be addressed and hopefully the information will equip parents, empower teachers, and encourage readers to see ADHD in a new light. In order to accomplish such a task, one must first be aware of the myths and misconceptions that exist regarding ADHD.

• Lazy and undisciplined. One misconception that often exists prior to a child being diagnosed with ADHD is that the child is lazy and undisciplined. Parents may find themselves frustrated with their child’s forgetfulness and lack of motivation. They may accuse the child of being lazy because they cannot complete what is considered a simple task, when in actuality it is the child’s inability to focus and pay attention.
• Poor parenting. Some people are quick to blame parents for ADHD, thinking that problems would not exist if the parents were only more consistent, harsher, or better at disciplining their      children. However, ADHD is not a result of poor parenting. ADHD does make parenting difficult. Parents of children with ADHD often struggle with finding the correct balance when faced with discipline. Often before a child is diagnosed with ADHD parents may use harsh punishment. They may feel their child’s behavior is due to something they are not doing; therefore they over-discipline and punish. Yet once their child is suggested to have ADHD, they may stop disciplining altogether due to guilt and shame from punishing their child for behaviors that were a result of a biochemical disorder. Since behavior issues tend to be a part of ADHD, it is important for parents use effective parenting skills.
• Medication is the cure. There has been much debate over the years regarding medications for ADHD. Although research has indicated that medication helps children with ADHD function better day-to-day, it is not a cure all. Since ADHD is a chronic disorder, many may need to take medication well into adolescence and adulthood in order to function daily. The medication does not “cure” all the symptoms. Many children on medication greatly benefit from individual, group, and family therapy. The medication may improve attention span and decrease impulsive      behaviors, but does not address social skills, self-esteem, communication, and coping skills. Therapy, along with medication, has proven to ensure the best chances of success.
• Need for structure. Some believe that children with ADHD need structure, structure, and more structure. Although children with ADHD tend to succeed best with structured classroom environments, clear rules and boundaries, and limited auditory, visual, and tactile stimulation, students with ADHD need some freedom to let their minds take a break. Studies have shown that children with ADHD perform better when allowed breaks and recesses throughout the day. Extracurricular activities and sports that require a high degree of focus and concentration along with long periods of waiting, listening, and sitting still tend to be problematic for children with ADHD. Activities and sports such as running, swimming, and free play allow children with ADHD both freedom and structure.
• Outgrowing ADHD. There was a time when it was thought that children would outgrow ADHD. As research has progressed, it is evident that children do not necessarily outgrow ADHD but instead learn to cope with and manage the symptoms of ADHD. Since ADHD is a spectrum-type disorder, one may face more intense symptoms that may require lifelong treatment while another may learn to cope with mild symptoms of ADHD by adolescence.
• Low IQ.  It is very common when parents first address the ADHD needs of their child for them to say, “But he is very smart” or “She is so bright and talented.” For years there has been a misconception that children with ADHD are not smart or have a lower IQ than other children.  Often the ADHD symptoms mask the true abilities of many children by affecting their grades and ability to learn. Some children with ADHD do struggle with a learning disability; however many are extremely bright, creative, gifted, and intelligent individuals.

Understanding the truth about ADHD can ensure children succeed in life. Despite all the misconceptions that exist in society, the following verse provides encouragement and reassurance of the potential that lies beyond the diagnosis ADHD.  Individuals with ADHD are gifted and wired in such a way that can bring creative, new ideas to our world when we learn to embrace their strengths rather than being blinded by the disorder.

“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” (Psalm 139: 13-14)

ADHD: What Every Parent Needs to Know by Michael I Reiff, MD, FAAP