n attention deficit have just one manifestation of their problem. Therefore accurate diagnosis is important before treatment.ADD/ADHD is such a complex disorder that successful treatment must be carefully planned and cover all aspects of the childs life. Consistency is critical if plan is to be effective. Teachers may try to seat the child near her in the classroom and their assignments should be shortened. Parents may want to enroll in parenting classes or support groups to help them deal with the challenges of the child with ADD/ADHD. They may also implement behavioral contracts with clearly stated expectations and consequences. It is crucial for parents to maintain open communication with all the professions involved with their child during the process. Some families seek counseling address specific issues that arise. The counselor should be advised of the modifications made at the school and any behavior contracts in progress at school or home. It is sometimes necessary to medicate children with severe ADD/ADHD. This is a decision made by the parents and there physician. The purpose of medication is to lengthen attention span, decrease distraction and provide opportunity for effective learning. The most commonly used medications for ADD are psychostimulants. Psychostimulants are the most widely used medicationfor the management of ADD related symptoms. 70-80 % of children with ADD reacts positively to psychostimulants (APA 84). Methylphenidate (RITILAN), dextroamphetamine (DEXEDRINE) and pemoline (CYLERT) have been prescribed for many years with minimal side effects. More recently, antidepressant medications such imipramine (TOFRANIL) and desipramine (NORPRAMIN) have also proven to be successful in treating the disorder(Miller 29). These medications decrease impulsive and hyperactivity increases attention and in some children decreases aggression. Each of these medications is believed to affect the deficiencies in ...
