NCJ Number
192598
Journal
Juvenile and Family Court Journal Volume: 52 Issue: 4 Dated: Fall 2001 Pages: 39-54
Date Published
2001
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This article provides information on the nature of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children as well as associated functional difficulties and coexisting disorders, followed by a discussion of what juvenile courts should do to diagnose and treat ADHD in juveniles appearing before the court.
Abstract
ADHD is a neurobiological disorder that cannot be cured but is treatable. The hallmark personality and behavioral characteristics of ADHD are inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Any task that requires sustained mental effort and focus is difficult for a child. This makes school failure likely from an early age. This impacts a child's self-esteem, straining family bonds and relationships. In the records of many youths who come before juvenile courts there is a diagnosis of ADHD, which was made early in the youth's education history. Multimodal interventions for ADHD include medical treatment (appropriate drugs), educational accommodations, parent training in ADHD management, and the effective management of the condition by professionals. The current model of incarceration of juveniles without adequate diagnostic screening and mental health treatment has failed young offenders. When specific needs are not met, recidivism rates are high. With the courage and commitment to take another look at what is known about ADHD, judges and other juvenile justice professionals can proactively provide the key to attaining appropriate treatment and services within the community for young offenders with ADHD. After other systems have failed youths with ADHD, the juvenile court may be the last chance these youths and their families may have to access mental health care and the critical support structures they need to build positive futures. 6 information resources and 55 references