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Attention deficit disorder
is also
known as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder(ADHD), minimal brain
damage(MBD) and hyperactive child syndrome. It is primarily a disorder of males
but is also seen in females. The primary problem appears to be one of abnormal
brain functioning as disclosed on sophisticated brain scans. Secondary problems
resulting from the neurological impairment include social adjustment,
self-esteem and behavioral difficulties, especially when the condition remains
unrecognized and untreated. There appears to be a significant genetic component,
Although a significant number of children outgrow the syndrome entirely, a large
percentage continue to manifest symptoms well into adulthood.
Adult attention deficit disorder has not been
generally recognized by the mental health community until the past decade.
Because adults with attention deficit disorder commonly experience problems in
self-esteem and relationships resulting from their undiagnosed and untreated
childhood disorder, and because they frequently present with symptoms of
anxiety, depression and disturbed interpersonal and vocational relationships,
they have often been diagnosed as suffering from and thus treated for conditions
other than attention deficit disorder, sometimes with less than satisfactory
results.
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