The Behavioral Development of Adolescents with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: Influences of Medications and Recommendations for Best Practices Pertaining to No Child Left Behind

The Behavioral Development of Adolescents with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: Influences of Medications and Recommendations for Best Practices Pertaining to No Child Left Behind

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a condition which affects 3-7% of school age children. The condition is characterized by behavioral symptoms that can be highly disruptive to both the home life and the classroom. These behaviors typically include inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. ADHD is caused by a malfunction or variation with the neurobiological system. Researchers believe that stimulant medications aid in the production of chemical neorotransmitters which help neurons communicate with each other. The No Child Left Behind Act is forcing teachers to find new strategies to teach the required curriculum to students with ADHD. A combination of psychostimulant medications and best practices assist students with ADHD. Psychostimulants are the most widely used treatment for children with ADHD. The most often prescribed stimulant medications are Ritalin and Aderall. The impact these medications have on behavioral development in adolescents is discussed in this paper.