Culture
Cultural changes in a child’s life could be a cause of ADHD-like symptoms. There have been various changes in the way life is lived in the last 50 years. Instead of making children go outside and play, they are sat in front of a television or given an iPad. Children are overly exposed to technology, and it should be removed. When the technology is taken away, the children can have trouble focusing. These behaviors should not be mistaken for ADHD. Parents of children who have behavioral problems need to explore all options instead of just assuming that their child has a disorder (Wiseman par. 2). Medical professionals should consider all factors in a child’s life before giving him or her a diagnosis that requires heavy medication and lifestyle changes. Those opposed to the idea that culture is changing children are trying to blame genetics. Research compiled by Seligson explains that “today, kids are getting a ‘higher genetic load’” (Seligson par. 9). Children are becoming more susceptible to diseases and disorders because of their family’s history with genetic diseases. However, ADHD is not a genetic disorder and cannot be put under that umbrella. ADHD is a hyperactivity disorder and should not be diagnosed only because a child has trouble focusing when removed from his or her normal patterns.