Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is a neurological condition that affects learning and behavior. It affects approximately 5 - 10% of our population. It develops in childhood, and usually is not grown out of. ADD is characterized by persistent and excessive problems in which a child is unable to focus and pay attention, or conversely displays hyperactive and impulsive behavior. Some of the top characteristics of ADD are: attention difficulties, distractibility, hyperactivity, impulsivity, attention-demanding behavior, school difficulties, and learning disorders. It is extremely difficult to describe the characteristics of children with ADD. The key to the characteristics is the intensity, the persistence, and the pattering of these symptoms. People with ADD are often noted for their inconsistencies. One day they can "do it," and the next they cannot. They can have difficulty remembering simple things yet have "steel trap" memories for complex issues. To avoid disappointment, frustration, and discouragement, do not expect their highest level of competence to be the standard. What is normal is that they will be inconsistent. Typically, they have problems with following through on instructions, paying attention appropriately to what they need to attend to, seem not to listen, be disorganized, have poor handwriting, miss details, have trouble starting tasks or with tasks that require planning or long-term effort, appear to be easily distracted, or forgetful. In addition, some people with ADD can be fidgety, verbally impulsive, unable to wait their turn, and act on impulse regardless of consequences. ADD 3However, it is important to remember not all people with ADD have all of these difficulties, nor all of the time.Although ADD obviously affects the performance of a person in a school setting, it will also affect other domains of life, which can include relationships with others, running a home, keeping track of finances, and or...
