The Impact of ADHD on Families

The Impact of ADHD on Families Children with ADHD may have significant im- pairments that can have a profound impact on their families. Children often forget what they have been told or defiantly oppose what is requested of them. They tend to be demanding, unpredictable, restless, quick tempered, forgetful, inconsistent in their school work, and socially immature. These experiences lead to increased levels of parental frustration. Many par- ents struggle with deciding on the best methods for disciplining their child. They may question if they are being too strict or too permissive. Parents may feel guilty and at fault for their child’s problems. Fair and consistent disciplinary practices can help change be- havior in a positive way. When the condition is identi- fied early and adequate treatment plans are implemented, children with ADHD can have success- ful school experiences and can develop positive rela- tionships with peers and adults. See also: ACTIVITY LEVEL; MENTAL DISORDERS Bibliography Barkley, Russell. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Handbook for Diagnosis and Treatment, 2nd edition. New York: Guilford Press, 1998. Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD). Available from http://www.chadd.org; INTERNET Rief, Sandra. How to Reach and Teach ADD/ADHD Children. West Nyack, NY: Center for Applied Research in Education, 1993. Sandra J. White