ADD/ADHD : a case study

Abstract

The aim of this study was to define Attention Deficit Disorder/Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADD/ADHD) and also to compare a child's characteristics with the present ADD/ ADHD theories. The case study was conducted through observations and interviews. The observations took place inside the child's classroom and in the school play ground. The author interviewed a number of persons who form part of the child's life within and outsides school. The field work was carried out between October 1998 and April 1999. The presentation of the study is as follows. Chapter 2 presents a vast literature review covering the rich history of the disorder. It also includes the presumed etiological explanations of the disorder and the major developments in the treatment and management of ADD/ ADHD. Chapter 3 outlines the strengths and weaknesses of the research tools used as well as the measures and procedures of the case study. The case study is presented in Chapter 4. Chapter 5 includes the discussion of the case study; the child's characteristics of ADD/ADHD are discussed and compared to theories and definitions of ADD/ ADHD as well as to the literature review. The Conclusion includes recommendations for supporting children with ADD/ ADHD in the classroom. All names have been changed for the sake of confidentiality. The Appendices include some other relevant material. It is sincerely hoped that this study proves to be an interesting one and will be of service to those who at one point or another in their life, are likely to encounter children with ADD/ ADHD.