ANSWERS: 1
  • ADD, or attention deficit disorder, is a chronic behavioral disorder that initially occurs during childhood, according to the MedicineNet website. Children with ADD usually have problems staying focused and attentive. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, ADD symptoms include being easily distracted, having difficulty completing a tasks or assignments and daydreaming. These symptoms must be occurring consistently for at least six months before the child's behavior is considered a behavioral disorder. Genetic factors, smoking during pregnancy, drug use and environmental toxins may cause this type of disorder in children, the Mayo Clinic reports.

    Behavior Modification

    According to HealthScout.com, parents or guardians can try positive reinforcement techniques that reward desired behavior and reduce negative behavior. For example, parents could make a list of specific rules that have immediate consequences if broken. These rules should be worded in a positive manner. Children should be rewarded and praised for not breaking the rules. Other behavior modifications include setting up a quiet, distraction-free study area for the child to complete her homework at specific times of the day or putting long-term assignments and tasks on a large calendar as reminders, making sure she completes her work before the due date. Parents also may work with their children on dealing with aggression or impulsive behaviors in connection to self-management and social skills.

    Counseling & Psychotherapy

    HealthScout reports that there are three types of psychotherapy families can try: individual psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and family therapy. Individual psychotherapy counsels the child with emotional problems. Cognitive behavioral therapy helps children understand their behavior and suggests ways to change it. Family therapy helps families to understand their child's behavior and may discuss genetic factors if they play a role.

    Supplements

    Even though most research on supplements has not been conclusive in terms of effective treatment for ADD, some parents may consider vitamin or mineral supplements to assist with other forms of treatment. According to the Mayo Clinic, some parents have used herbal supplements such as ginseng and ginkgo as a way to reduce the affects of ADD in their children. Some parents also may consider glyconutrients as an alternative to traditional medications. Glyconutrients are eight specific sugars that may help reduce the symptoms of ADD because they form glycoproteins that are necessary for healthy brain function. According to the I Found Health website, some of these nutrients include fructose, glucose, mannose and xylose.

    Source:

    HealthScout

    National Institutes of Health

    I Found Health

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