[Pan_Yans Wife]

You know, I have often wondered why parents want their children labled as having ADD.

Is it because they don't think their children warrant enough status or attention, based on the child's merits? And thus they want the child to be seen as deserving "special" attention, due to a mental problem?

[Dianna]

You know, I have often wondered why parents want their children labled as having ADD.

For some, I think it is that being a consistant disciplinary force is demanding. The parent is lazy and inconsistent (or burdened by depression or whatever), the kids become unruly, and instead of the parents accepting that they need to get a move on, it's easier to say that there is something wrong with the kid.

[JennysCool]

The sad thing is, I think they just want a "professional" to say it's okay to drug their kids when they get rambunctious.

[org.whodat]

You know, I have often wondered why parents want their children labled as having ADD.

Is it because they don't think their children warrant enough status or attention, based on the child's merits? And thus they want the child to be seen as deserving "special" attention, due to a mental problem?

It's the first step to get them on SSI,

[templar]

Is it because they don't think their children warrant enough status or attention, based on the child's merits?

It's not just ADHD and such. It encompases a full range of physical and behavioral disfunctions. It suits the lifestyle of some parents (mothers more than fathers, IMO) to have a 'sick' child. It can provide excuses, money, attention, etc. in abundance to the parent.

[twigs]

they want the child to be seen as deserving "special" attention, due to a mental problem?

Funding in the public schools are set up around identification of problems. These "problems" have tests and definitions and if children fit within these definitions, they become eligible for funded special assistance. That's the primary reason parents clammer for their children to get these labels. This didn't start until new expensive programs became available.

[luckystarmom]

Most of the kids that I know that are labeled as having ADD/ADHD are having trouble learning how to read.

I think that medication definitely helps them focus and learn to read, and it's an easy (for the parents/teachers) to dod this.

However, I would use it as a last resort. I personally think that some kids learn differently, and that should be the first step. Change the environment first, and if all other steps have been taken then put the kid on drugs.