COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT ADD/ADHD
by Barry Belt
Licensed Psychologist/Director, Attention Deficit Specialists
What is ADD/ADHD?
Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is a behavioral problem which is most likely neurologically based. It makes it difficult for a person to focus his or her attention on a task and learn. In its extreme, this problem includes aspects of hyperactivity, impulsivity, disobedience and angry outbursts. In this case, it is called Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
What causes ADD/ADHD?
Dr. Ken Blum, in his book Overload, explains that persons with ADD/ADHD are born with a genetic predisposition to these behaviors, inheriting the potential to develop these problems just as one might inherit the potential to develop heart disease or diabetes. However, in order to develop ADD/ADHD, he adds, one must not only have this genetic predisposition, but must also be exposed to a negative and highly stressful environment. Other experts who study ADD/ADHD believe that the behavioral problems stem from improper diet, trauma to the brain incurred in-utero or during the birthing process, or environmental poisons, such as lead,
ingested by the child as he or she develops.
What are characteristics of ADD/ADHD children?
ADD children have problems paying attention, may process certain cognitive tasks slowly despite the fact that they may actually be very bright, and daydream excessively. They may be described as others as "zoning out" or "being lazy". The ADHD child is also impulsive, has poor emotional controls, is resistant toward authority figures and the rules they impose, and may develop more serious behavioral problems as a result of their conflicts with those in authority (e.g. anti-social traits, rebellion through drug abuse, etc.).
How does attention relate to the brain wave activity of ADD/ADHD children?
All neurological processes of the brain are conducted through an interaction of chemical and electrical processes (biochemical/bioelectrical processes). Thus, certain brain functions, including attention, can be measured with sophisticated, electronic instruments such as the electroencephalograph (EEG). Depending on what biochemical/bioelectrical processes are going on in the brain, different "brain waves" are being generated.
Children with ADD/ADHD are frequently shown to have maladaptive brain wave patterns on the EEG. They have too much slow wave activity (Theta waves at 4-8 hertz), which is involved in daydreaming, and not enough fast wave activity (Beta waves at 15-18 hertz), which is involved in focused attention and alertness.
How does Brain-Based Biofeedback or Neurofeedback train attention?
Neurofeedback can correct maladaptive brain wave patterns by teaching the child to manipulate his or her own brain wave pattern, decreasing the daydreamer Theta waves and increasing the attention enhancing Beta waves, through the use of special software and computer enhanced techniques which allow the child to monitor his or her progress in a video-game format.
 How do you feel about Ritalin as a treatment for ADD/ADHD?
The use of Ritalin to treat ADD/ADHD has increased significantly since 1990 while "sufficient data on safety and efficacy of long-term use of Ritalin in children are not yet available" (1996 Physician's Desk Reference). Ritalin is also fast becoming a drug of abuse which can be found in increasing volume on the street and, alarmingly, on college campuses, as well. In my opinion, Ritalin should be used as a treatment of last resort, only after all other treatment approaches have failed. When Ritalin is used by itself to treat ADD/ADHD, it frequently just masks behavior while effecting no real. Lasting change in the child. Further, some researchers have suggested that the use of stimulants to treat ADD/ADHD can result in impaired conscience formation, whereby the child is led to disown responsibility for their provocative behavior. In the long run, this could lead
to more serious and chronic anti-social behavior and/or drug abuse.
What are the results of Neurofeedback training and are they permanent?
Significant improvement in the ADD/ADHD child's ability to tune in and pay attention and in their ability to reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity is seen rather rapidly. The ability to process and retain information improves and, consequently, test scores and school grades usually rise accordingly. Once the brain recognizes itself through the use of Neurofeedback, the results are usually permanent. Studies suggest that it takes about 40 to 50 sessions for this to occur; although, some students require refresher sessions to maximize the benefits of their Neurofeedback training.
Is Neurofeedback the only treatment modality used in your practice to treat ADD/ADHD?
While Neurofeedback is the cornerstone of our treatment approach for ADD/ADHD children, we believe in a balanced approach which also regulates other aspects of the child's life to enhance learning. Nutritional intake is regulated. Behavior modification is used to structure appropriate learning patterns in the school and at home. Counseling is employed to assist the child in bolstering their waning self-esteem and to encourage them.
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