Over-diagnosis and Medication for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disor

This research paper will include strict academic research. It will begin by introducing the existence of an over diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and describing the many plausible reasons behind this diagnostic inflation. Although the reasons mentioned in the paper cannot be scientifically tested to provide a direct answer, factual evidence shows a valid correlation. Moving forward, the paper generally addresses the presence of mental disease within the American youth. However, one will see how mental disorders such as ADHD are classified in such broad terms. The format of the education system is examined as it creates a lack of sleep within the American youth. Education within America and inconsistent sleep patterns are looked at as possible links to an over diagnosis of ADHD. Think back to the days of elementary school and high school, did waking up half past the crack of down wear you down throughout the school day? Did your fatigue prohibit you from maximizing your potential? The latter reasons that link to an over diagnosis of ADHD are socio-economic factors. The main point of this research paper is to demand change within society. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder stands as America's capitalistic disease of choice. Abbreviated as ADHD, this mental disorder is prescribed to individual's who display a lack of focus and noticeably restless behavior. The diagnosis of the disorder is targeting the American youth and adolescents at a rapidly alarming rate. Treated with intense speed-like stimulants such as Vyvanse, Ritalin and Adderall, the qualifications and testing required to obtain these medications are becoming less stern. Leon Eisenberg discovered ADHD over a century ago; ... ...p and Student Achievement. Eastern Economic Journal 38.4 (2012): 512-24. ProQuest. Web. 11 Feb. 2014. Giedd, Jay N. "Linking Adolescent Sleep, Brain Maturation, and Behavior." Journal of Adolescent Health 45.4 (2009): 319-20. Print. Huelskamp, Robert M. "Perspectives on Education in America." Phi Delta Kappan. 74.9 (1993): 718-21. Print. Katel, Peter. "Teen Drug Use." CQ Researcher. 3 June 2011: 481-504. Web. 8 Feb. 2014. Koch, Kathy. "Rethinking Ritalin." CQ Researcher 22. Oct. 1999: 905-28. Web. 8 Feb. 2014. Mantel, Barbara. "Mental Health Policy." CQ Researcher. 10 May 2013: 425-48. Web. 8 Feb. 2014. Rogers, Ann E. "Sleep and Health." Healthy Sleep. Harvard Medical School. Web. 17 Mar. 2014. "What You Need to Know about ADHD." Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. National Public Health Institute, 24 Oct. 2013. Web. 18 Mar. 2014.