Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder? No, they’re just naughty, say experts

UK Daily Mail
Friday, July 4, 2008

Teachers could be labelling children as hyperactive when they are simply naughty, experts have suggested.

A study reveals only a handful of youngsters believed to have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, actually suffer from the syndrome.

The research has raised fears that children are being wrongly diagnosed because they are disruptive in lessons or refuse to co-operate with teachers.

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Psychiatrists now want to change the ways in which schools identify pupils with ADHD.

Up to three per cent of all primary school children are said to suffer from the condition, which causes symptoms including hyperactivity, restlessness and inattention.

Teachers who suspect a child has the disorder usually refer them to their local mental health service, where specialists carry out observations before making a diagnosis.

• A d v e r t i s e m e n t

Many are also prescribed drugs such as Ritalin, which helps increase concentration and memory.

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