Abstract
This paper explores the communication surrounding the Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), from public concept, popular media, and personal stories, in order to understand how the disorder is perceived within American culture. The discussion approaches public misgivings and beliefs about ADHD, metaphors surrounding the disorder, and narratives from patients themselves. These topics will assist to analyze the implications of messages surrounding ADHD.
Introduction
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common childhood disorders, present in 6% to 9% of all children (Cassels, 2013). For several decades, ADHD was mostly considered a childhood disorder. Symptoms of ADHD in children, however, continue into adulthood in approximately half of all cases, and current estimates of adults with ADHD indicate an incidence rate of 4% to 5% among adults (Kessler et al., 2006). Studies show that the number of children being diagnosed with ADHD is increasing, but it is unclear why.
Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are the key behaviors of ADHD. It is normal for all children to be inattentive, hyperactive, or impulsive sometimes, but for children with ADHD, these behaviors are more severe and occur more often. To be diagnosed with the disorder, a child must have symptoms for 6 or more months and to a degree that is greater than other children of the same age (Park, 2013). Scientists are not sure what causes ADHD, although many studies suggest that genes play a large role. Like many other illnesses, ADHD probably results from a combination of factors. In addition to genetics, researchers are looking at possible environmental factors, and are studying how brain injuries, nutrition, and the social environment might contribute to ADHD.
Most children get distracted, act impulsively, and struggle to concentrate at one time or