ERIC Number: ED290282
Record Type: RIE
Publication Date: 1987-Sep
Pages: 10
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
The Hyperactive Child.
Murphy, Linda; Della Corte, Suzanne
Special Parent/Special Child, v3 n5 Sep-Oct 1987
The newsletter's main article focuses on hyperactivity and attention deficit disorder. The causes of hyperactivity, which affects 3-5 percent of all children, are elusive but may include neurological immaturity, inherent genetic problems, or fetal exposure to harmful substances. Patterns of behavior that typify a hyperactive child include a short attention span, extreme impulsivity, disorganization, constant movement, difficulties in coordination, attention-demanding behaviors, domineering personality, lack of judgment, and mood swings. Help can be provided in several ways. Medications, usually stimulants but occasionally major tranquilizers, can be prescribed. Some claim that dietary changes to eliminate sugar, food additives, or allergens also help. Psychological help can enhance self-esteem and peer relationships. Additional suggestions include teaching self-control, accentuating the positive, encouraging physical activities, reducing outside stimulation, adhering to a consistent schedule, avoiding overload, and promoting self-esteem. A question-and-answer section provides specific advice on toilet training and on pinpointing problems in a developmentally disabled child so that an appropriate program can be developed for him. Another section focuses on children with Attention Deficit Disorder and hyperactivity, detailing their special problems, their need for a well-structured predictable school environment, and the use of psychotherapy and/or medication to assist them. (VW)
Descriptors: Attention Deficit Disorders, Behavior Disorders, Drug Therapy, Elementary Secondary Education, Handicap Identification, Hyperactivity, Medical Services, Parent Child Relationship, Teacher Student Relationship
Lindell Press, Inc., P.O. Box 462, South Salem, NY 10590 ($18.00 per year; $3.50 per issue).
Publication Type: Guides - Non-Classroom; Reference Materials - General
Education Level: N/A
Audience: Parents; Practitioners
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Note: For other 1987 issues, see ED 288 323-326.