Dealing with ADHD: Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

At a time when Ritalin is a household word, and any teenager with a short attention span jokes about having ADD, the need for accurately defining and demythologizing ADD/ADHD is higher than ever. Stressing that ADHD affects achievement but not intelligence, and illustrating why focusing on tasks or filtering stimuli is so incredibly difficult, Dealing with ADHD explores contributing factors, associated behaviors, and coping therapies; offers practical strategies for classroom success; and suggests further resources. Despite the controversy surrounding its use and prescription, the drug Ritalin--while mentioned--is barely discussed, nor will viewers get a clear idea of the actual steps used in diagnosing this disorder. In addition, the program shares a substantial amount of footage with another EVN video, Prescription Drug Abuse (VL-11/01), including semi-graphic drug usage scenes (which seem unnecessary). Finally, although the video initially seems to be aimed at parents and teachers, presenting ADHD as a Problem To Be Cured, it later seems to be talking more to students with the disorder, in which ADHD is then a Condition You Can Handle. While the two may be compatible angles, it still gives the whole program a certain lack of focus (no pun intended). Better, more affordable purchases might be Your Child and ADD/ADHD (VL-9/99) or Generation RX: Reading, Writing and Ritalin (VL Online 8/01). Optional. Aud: H, P. (E. Gieschen)