Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Abstract

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is most frequently diagnosed in the pediatric population. This disorder consists of short-, medium-, and long-term interruptions in development that affect performance and daily activities (Amador et al., 2002). Weiss and Trokenberg (1993) argue that adolescents with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder show poor scholastic performance, low levels of self-esteem, higher levels of alcohol and drug use, and more difficulties with social functioning when compared to children not diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Given the evidence of difficulties with response inhibition, recent studies have highlighted problems with working memory, attentive faculties (e.g., sustained attention), and response inhibition when faced with interferences (Brito et al., 1999; Déry et al., 1999; Drechsler et al., 2005; Goldberg et al., 2005; Rodríguez et al., 2009; Seidman et al., 2006; Bedard et al., 2007). The fact that these problems appear in childhood, which is a key period for establishing the foundation for future professional exploration, interests, values, attitudes, and vocational abilities (Araújo & Taveira, 2009), conveys the gravity of the situation for a child with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder...