[PianoMan]

Those on either side of this debate who fear the overmedication of our youth might be interested to know that this is not the first time in history people have used medication as a substitute for parenting.

In the 19th century, when opium was legal in Britain, the best-selling varieties had names like "mother's helper." Opium was used regularly to make kids quiet and polite, the way more designer drugs are used today.

Does ADHD medication have it's uses? Sure, for an incredibly small number of kids who have genuine neurologically-initated problems. But using drugs as a substitute for parenting is a tactic with a long, sad history. Hey, raising kids can be an insane amount of work - is it any surprise many parents want a shortcut?

[Red Boots]

In the 19th century, when opium was legal in Britain, the best-selling varieties had names like "mother's helper." Opium was used regularly to make kids quiet and polite, the way more designer drugs are used today. When our children were small my mother-in-law told me about this great stuff she had gotten from her Dr as a young mother. "Just one spoonful, and they'd all sleep for 10 hours straight! You've got to get some." I wonder what it was...

[Lazamataz]

Does ADHD medication have it's uses? Sure, for an incredibly small number of kids who have genuine neurologically-initated problems.

And adults. Don't forget the adults.

I agree with what you say about overdiagnosis of ADD and the subsequent overprescription of ADD medicines.