What Every Parent Needs to Know
January 19, 2004
With its arsenal of experts, evidence-based research and trusted name, the American Academy of Pediatrics sets out to demystify and untangle the knot of controversy surrounding one of today's hot-button health issues: ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). Nothing unnerves parents more than confronting the realization that their child might be diagnosed with ADHD—at least until they face the mountain of potentially disreputable books, articles and Web sites dedicated to the topic and the media hype that has made ADHD a dreaded household word. The concern is not unfounded: ADHD affects 6% to 9% of the school-age population, a childhood problem second only to asthma. What's more, much of the confusion occurs because behaviors associated with ADHD—inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity—are exhibited by all children at some time. The AAP's intent for this guide is to provide a single source that reveals the truth about the disorder, diagnosis, treatment and lifelong management of ADHD. While nothing about ADHD is easy, this book is well structured and surprisingly easy to understand (although the writing is rather clinical and devoid of warmth), as it walks parents through the difficult process of defining the disorder and its various subtypes. Parents will appreciate the abundant charts, myth-busting sidebars, case studies, parenting strategies and clarifying message: diagnosing and effectively treating ADHD relies on the dedicated, long-term teamwork among a child's parents, teachers, mental health professionals and physicians.