Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Family and Ecological Systems Perspective

Abstract

Little has been written about attention-deficit hyperactive disorder from a family systems perspective. The authors describe the impact of this neurologically based disorder on family functioning and explore the utility of systems theory in addressing families needs. Suggestions for widening the levels of intervention beyond traditional treatment parameters are offered.

La controversial Ritalina: ¿Cómo es su consumo en Costa Rica?

“…Otras fuentes de estrés familiar tales como bajo ingreso, empleo inseguro y traslados de vivienda frecuentes puede exacerbar la sintomatología. Sin embargo no se puede asumir que la inestabilidad familiar cause DA/DAH (Bernier and Siegel, 1995).…”

Disabling labeling : a social worker's response to attention deficit disorder

“…Day treatment including special education for children , art therapy, social skills training, and occupational training might also be beneficial for these children . For the parents, there is behavioural management training and supportive counseling along with psychoeducational groups where parents could be taught parenting strategies (Bernier & Siegel , 1994). This approach also includes family therapy in some cases (Grizenko, 1997).…”

“…The danger with any one of these perspectives is that the professional may attribute all the causality to one factor and not recognize the multitude of contributing variables. Social workers are the ideal professionals to evaluate and balance these factors (Bernier & Siegel , 1994). Social workers are trained in general systems theory and are encouraged to take a broader approach when looking at causality.…”

“…This includes utilizing methods directed at the individual child, the parents, and the family system, as well as advocating for changes in the school system and broader social systems. Research has shown that parents of children diagnosed as ADD are more prone to the following problems (Bernier & Siegel , 1994):…”

“…systems of the children with ADD (Bernier & Siegel , 1994). "Practitioners must attempt to understand the complex interactions among family members and the societal institutions and forces surrounding them" (Bernier & Siegel, 1994, p. 142).…”