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Is ADHD a ‘real’ disorder?

Introduction
According to the American Psychiatric Association (2013), ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by a persistent pattern of inattention and hyperactivity–impulsivity. Symptoms of this nature persist into adulthood and can cause several impairments in social, academic and occupational functioning (Gapin et al., 2011). Globally, the disorder affects 5.3% of children (Polanczyk et al., 2007). This figure was reported following a review of 102 prevalence studies from seven regions, including North America, South America, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Asia and Oceania. The disorder is more commonly diagnosed in males than in females in the general population, with a ratio of 2:1 in children (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). In the United States, and increasingly in Europe, psychostimulants are first-line treatments for ADHD (Singh, 2008) and since the 1950s, medications for ADHD have been used (Kewley, 2011).
In many western countries, ADHD has achieved celebrity status, such that it probably no longer requires introduction (Graham, 2010). It is a global phenomenon, spreading rapidly as result of the increasing dominance internationally of US psychiatric models, the need for new markets for major pharmaceutical companies, increasing use of the internet by parents and professionals and changing approaches to schooling (Stead et al., 2006). Campbell (2000) asserts it is safe to argue that we likely know more about ADHD than any other childhood condition. Yet, despite the existing plethora of research and skyrocketing increases in the number of persons diagnosed with ADHD, it is clear that this topic is highly misunderstood (Kewley, 1999).

Conclusion
The authors of this paper reviewed the literature and research supporting ADHD as a valid disorder. They also explored the many criticisms levelled against the ADHD construct. Research literature on both sides of the ADHD argument presents clear and compelling evidence for their theories and positions and it is clear that the debate surrounding the legitimacy of ADHD as a medical condition is far from over. Although the ADHD construct has been scientifically explored, it has gathered limited medical support, and admittedly, serious gaps in knowledge remain unanswered. This highlights the need for further research and exploration of this controversial and contested condition, with which many of our children and students continue to be diagnosed and labelled in the present day.



example sentences

Symptoms of this nature persist into adulthood and can cause several impairments in social, academic and occupational functioning
これらの生まれつきの症状は成人期の間も持続され、社会や、学問、職業で作用する中でいくつかの障害を引き起こします。

It probably no longer requires introduction.
おそらく、もはや紹介の必要としなくなるだろう。