Development Considerations

Robert Fettgather, Ph.D. is a counselor, educator, writer and activist residing in Grass Valley, California.  Robert Fettgather holds a doctorate in psychology and master degrees in both psychology and education. In addition, Robert Fettgather has served as Special Consultant in psychometrics to the Departments of Education and Developmental Disabilities for the State of California. He holds a specialist credential in learning handicapped and community college credentials in both learning and developmental disabilities.

Developmental psychopathology is the study of how disorders arise and change with time. These changes usually follow a pattern, with the child mastering one skill before acquiring the next. This aspect of development is important because it implies that any disruption in the acquisition of early skills will, by the very nature of the developmental process, also disrupt the development of later skills. Thus early identification and treatment in these disorders is crucial to minimize disruption to development over the years. 

The primary characteristics of people with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder are three fold:  a pattern of inattention (such as not paying attention to school- or work-related tasks), impulsivity, and/or hyperactivity. These deficits can significantly disrupt academic efforts and social relationships. Symptoms usually appear around age 3 to 4. Gender differences: Boys outnumber girls 3:1. There are psychosocial and biological (medication) interventions described in Barlow. Untreated ADHD can lead to frequent negative feedback from peers and adults; peer rejection and resulting social isolation; and low self-esteem.

But should these adults be treated with stimulant medication as is used to treat childhood ADHD? Moreover, should adults never diagnosed as kids, be diagnosed with adult ADHD? Allen Frances warns that DSM-5 has "set the stage for creating a new epidemic of ADHD in adults".  One could argue that this is yet another example of diagnostic inflation for the purpose of increasing the market for stimulant drugs like Ritalin and drug company profits.