ADHD and Autism

INTRO TO NEURODIVERSITY

  • Definition: Individual differences in brain functioning considered normal variations.

  • Neurodivergence should not be stigmatized. (Merriam-Webster)

  • ADHD and Autism are significant due to their impact on well-being and common diagnoses.

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ADHD

  • ADHD involves inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity.

  • The term "deficit" may mislead; it relates to regulating attention.

DSM Criteria for ADHD:

  1. Persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity.

  2. Symptoms before age 12.

  3. Symptoms in multiple settings.

  4. Symptoms interfere with functioning.

Symptoms of Inattention (6+ for 6 months):

  • Careless mistakes, difficulty sustaining attention, forgetfulness.

Symptoms of Hyperactivity/Impulsivity (6+ for 6 months):

  • Fidgeting, leaving seat, difficulty waiting.

ADHD MYTHS:

  • ADHD is only in childhood.

  • ADHD is overdiagnosed.

  • Medication turns children into zombies.

  • Individuals can focus on some things; they are not lazy.

STATS & FACTS

  • 5% of children, more common in boys.

  • Influenced by genetics, potentially leading to poor education and risky behaviors.

MEDICATION

  • Primarily treated with stimulants like Ritalin.

  • Effects last 12 hours or less, not harmful to take days off.

AUTISM

  • Characterized by social communication impairments and restricted behaviors.

DSM Guidelines for Autism:

  1. Deficits in social communication (3/3).

  2. Restricted, repetitive behaviors (2+/4).

COMMON MYTHS ABOUT AUTISM:

  • Autistic individuals lack emotions or can't be verbal.

  • They don’t need friends or can’t be independent.

TREATMENT SUPPORT FOR AUTISM

  • Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) is commonly used but controversial among some autistic individuals.

  • Support strategies include speech-language therapy, social skills training, and family support.

IMPORTANT CONCEPT

  • Primary goal: Support individuals in their preferences, not to make them conform to neurotypical norms.

Aspect

ADHD

Autism

Definition

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity.

A developmental disorder affecting social communication and behavior.

DSM Criteria

1. Pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity.

  1. Symptoms before age 12.

  2. Symptoms in multiple settings.

  3. Symptoms interfere with functioning. | 1. Deficits in social communication (3/3 criteria).

  4. Restricted, repetitive behaviors (2/4 criteria). |
    | Symptoms | Inattention (careless mistakes, forgetfulness), Hyperactivity/Impulsivity (fidgeting, difficulty waiting). | Social communication impairments, restricted behaviors and interests. |
    | Common Myths | ADHD only affects children, Overdiagnosed, Medications are harmful. | Autistic individuals cannot express emotions, don’t need friends, can’t be independent. |
    | Prevalence | About 5% of children, more common in boys. | Varies; prevalence rates have increased in recent years. |
    | Treatment | Primarily treated with stimulants (e.g., Ritalin).
    Short-term effects; safe to take breaks. | Treatment includes Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), speech therapy, social skills training. |
    | Primary Goal of Treatment | Help individuals manage attention and impulsivity. | Support individual preferences rather than conforming to neurotypical norms. |