The similarities between trauma and ADHD, and the misdiagnosses that are caused by it.

Abstract

By Hayden Althauser, Social Work

Advisor: Anjanette Wells

Presentation ID: PM_A08

Abstract: ADHD is a brain disorder marked by an ongoing pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development (National Institute of Metal Health). People are diagnosed and treated for ADHD every day and among these people, children in foster care are diagnosed with this disorder at a much larger rate than other children. Trauma, neglect, all forms of abuse, and PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) are often experienced by children in foster care and can mimic the symptoms of ADHD. The purpose of this study is to determine if these factors can attribute to a false ADHD diagnoses and the effects that can occur from a misdiagnoses. The correlation that was discovered between trauma and ADHD will help explain the large number of diagnosed attention disorders in foster children.