Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a...

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a heritable, neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity (del Campo et al, 2011). The disorder begins in early childhood and persists into adolescence, and for 70% it continues on to adulthood (Sharma Couture, 2014). Those who suffer ADHD experience challenges, particularly during their development. Impulsivity and inattention often result in lower performance in school, and greater incidents of motor accidents and ¬ risky behaviour. Additionally, individuals with ADHD have higher rates of one or more comorbidities including major depression and anxiety disorders (Sharma Couture). Despite being one of the most researched neuropsychological†¦show more content†¦While the focus of ADHD pathophysiological research has been traditionally based on the catecholamine systems, it must be noted that ADHD is very complex and that further neurotransmitters should be explored beyond just dopamine and norepinephrine. Dopamine interacts with other neurotransmitters. A particular interest in nicotinic systems have stemmed from several sources, notably the observation of ADHD subjects who smoke (Durston, 2003). Potter and Newhouse reported improved behavioural inhibition in cognition performance based tests after administration of nicotine (Potter Newhouse, 2004). It is known that nicotine increases the release of dopamine in striatal and mesolimbic dopaminergic pathways, and evidence given by Potter, Newhouse and Bucci potentially give a mechanism showing how nicotinic abnormalities influence dopaminergic functions, which may lead to new developments in effective t reatment of ADHD symptoms (Potter Newhouse, 2005). Studies looking at brain structure have shown a smaller volume of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and reduced activity in the PFC, caudate or cerebellum (Sharma Couture, 2014). These areas are known to regulate attention, emotions, actions and behaviour. Brain function studies also implicate how ADHD frontal brain activation is significantly different in a non-ADHD brain. Future research into understanding the neurological basis for the variability in ADHD are looking to use brain imagingShow MoreRelatedAttention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder Essay1011 Words   |  5 PagesAttention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common childhood disorders that develops in children and becomes apparent in the preschool, early school years and continue through adolescence and adulthood. It is one of the rising public health concerns which is characterized by inappropriate levels of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. The world wide prevalence rate was estimated as 5.29 %. (Polanczyk 2007). Prevalent rates are higher at 12 years. It also affects schoolRead MoreAttention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder ( Adhd )853 Words   |  4 PagesAttention deficit hyperactivity disorder, better known by its acronym as ADHD, is one of the â€Å"hot topics† constantly being discussed in today’s psychological field. 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