ADHD: Not a Discipline Problem

ADHD was once looked upon as a discipline and behavioral problem resulting from bad parenting. Some suggested it was caused by high sugar intake, food additives, excessive TV viewing, and family problems. But none of these explanations is supported by scientific evidence.

Most scientists agree that it's a biologically based disorder of the nervous system. Brain imaging research using a technique called magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has shown that differences exist between the brains of children with and without ADHD, but the exact mechanism of brain function causing the symptoms of ADHD is unknown. Scientists caution that MRIs used in studies are research tools and cannot be used to diagnose ADHD in a specific person.

Recently published research suggests that ADHD tends to run in families. In these studies, children with ADHD have, on average, at least one close relative with ADHD. Over the years, other theories have suggested that exposure to lead in the environment, premature birth, birth trauma, and brain injury may lead to the development of ADHD. Some studies have shown a possible correlation between the use of cigarettes and alcohol during pregnancy and the risk for giving birth to a child with ADHD. For this and many other health reasons, the NIMH recommends that women who are pregnant refrain from both cigarette and alcohol use.

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