Synopsis "ADHD and The Whole Family"
This Self-Help workbook presents a 10-session program that is primarily written for families in which one or more members suffer from AD/HD. In the author's experience, AD/HD is a struggle that affects the whole family; thus even those not afflicted by the condition may be subject to its influences. The program is comprised of a series of exercises designed to address some of the more prominent problem areas for those confronting AD/HD. Attention Deficit/Hyperactive Disorder (AD/HD) is a condition that interferes with an individual's ability to maintain focus, monitor impulsive actions, and/or effectively control hyperactive behaviors. More simply defined, AD/HD affects the body's ability to pay attention, to think before acting and to deal with excess energy. Often, this results in the impairment of an individual's learning ability and behavioral control. Thus AD/HD is primarily a physiological disorder. However, psychological issues, such as depression, anger, and low self-esteem, which further impact the individual's behavior, may develop secondary to the primary physiological condition. Therefore, to achieve a better understanding and to suggest a method of treating AD/HD, the author will pay particular attention to three factors that are fundamental to the condition: focusing, impulsiveness and hyperactivity. The workbook is divided into three main sections. The first part includes an outline of the 10-session family program and a discussion of the format employed in the book. This is followed by a brief history and explanation of the condition known as AD/HD. Some preliminary assessment surveys that need to be completed before embarking on the program are also included in this section. The second part of this book presents the program in a session-by-session format. Each exercise includes an explanation of, directions for, and any templates necessary for that particular session. The third part of this book is intended mainly for reference and further reading. It includes a comprehensive bibliography, information on how to develop a 504-plan, and an overview of the various treatments currently available for AD/HD.
