A.D.H.D. or just B.O.L.D

[sandidune]

Was listening to a debate on radio the other day when a caller suggested that most kids diagnosed with ADHD, were just B.O.L.D - just wondered what your thoughts were on that.

I have to say I'm a little undecided and I think it can depend on who actually decides on the diagnoses. Quite often our childrens behaviour is labelled at the first signs of anything and symptoms of ADHD can simply be sorted by changing your childs environment,giving them more of your time, finding out why they are behaving in a particular manner, examining your dicipline techniques. I'm not even sure if there is a sure process to establish ADHD. Is there?

[joanne]

Great point there Barbara ! I couldn't agree more - labelling can be so distructive for children (and for adults) and unfortunately in this country if you child is not 'officially' diagnosed as having something wrong - then little or no help is available to them or their parents! You are also right in that challenging behaviour when first presented if not checked can often escalate into something much more serious later in life. It is interesting to note that in France ADHD does not officially exist - wondering what they are doing different there ? !!