ADD

I am amazed with how extensive and specific an ADD diagnosis actually is.  While reading, “The Attention Deficit Disorders Intervention Manual” I discovered the seemingly endless number of symptoms that are included within this diagnosis.  Originally I associated ADD primarily with poor concentration and listening skills, a short attention span, and a generally frenzied state.  Under these categories I always assumed that behaviors such as: rushing through assignments with little or no regard to accuracy or quality of work, easily distracted by other activities or other students, does not hear all of what is said, needs oral questions and directions frequently repeated, or does not remain on-task would be feasible signs that a child is experiencing ADD-like behaviors.  All of these symptoms are absolutely included, but the list goes on!  I was surprised to learn that a child who fails to demonstrate short-term memory skills, fails to remember sequences, omits/adds/substitutes/reverses letters or words when reading, or fails to copy letters, words, sequences, and numbers from a textbook, chalkboard, etc were all included within an ADD diagnosis.  In addition, I can also understand why ADD/ADHD is commonly present when a child also exhibits BD (or other diagnosis relating to behavior disorder).  ADD also included behaviors such as: does not adjust behavior to expectations or different situations, demonstrates inappropriate behavior when moving with a group, does not follow directives from teachers or other school personnel, does not follow multi-step verbal directions.  I did not realize how closely linked a behavior disorder was with an Attention Deficit Disorder.  I can certainly see why so many people are diagnosed with a disorder that covers such lengthy classifications!