To better explain, let’s briefly discuss the language used for describing diagnoses in general. Diagnostic terminology for psychiatric and behavioral disorders comes from the diagnostic and statistical manual (DSM), the manual used by doctors to identify, describe, and code various conditions.Cognitive learning theory examples the names of various diagnoses have changed over the years in through as series of revisions to the manual as research has improved and new information has come to light.Cognitive learning theory examples

ADHD, more specifically, has been known by many names in the years since it was first recorded in medical research (the late 1700’s), it was not included in the diagnostic manuals for health professionals until 1968.Cognitive learning theory examples in fact, at one time ADHD was referred to as “minimal brain dysfunction” – thankfully times have changed! As research and understanding of this condition has grown over the decades, the diagnosis name and description has evolved.Cognitive learning theory examples many people recall the term attention deficit disorder (ADD) and still use it today out of familiarity, and many people, especially those who were diagnosed with ADHD or worked with individuals with ADHD before the publication of the DSM-IV in 1994, often use the terms “ADHD” and “ADD” interchangeably.Cognitive learning theory examples ADD was the diagnostic term used in the third edition of the DSM released in 1980. Later revisions of the DSM, changed the diagnosis name to attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder to reflect new findings in research.Cognitive learning theory examples

The most recent revision, DSM-5, breaks attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder into three subtypes: predominantly inattentive presentation, predominantly hyperactive/impulsive presentation, and combined presentation, to more accurately reflect the most common forms of the condition.Cognitive learning theory examples though using the term ADD may in some cases refer more specifically to ADHD of the inattentive presentation, the term is just as often use as a substitute for ADHD - with the unspoken assumption that “type” or presence of particular symptoms like hyperactivity would have to be specified on a case by case basis.Cognitive learning theory examples

Researchers used to believe that ADHD was related to minor head injuries and brain damage, but most people with ADHD have no such history and this theory has been disproved.Cognitive learning theory examples others have speculated that refined sugar and food additives cause ADHD symptoms. While refined sugar isn’t good for one’s health in general, there has not been any scientifically proven correlation between sugar and food additives and ADHD.Cognitive learning theory examples

Differences in the communication route related to reward and consequence, a pathway involving dopamine activity (volkow, et al, 2009) have been found to be particularly problematic in the brains of individuals with ADHD, as have brain networks involved in the engagement and regulation of attention.Cognitive learning theory examples disruptions in serotonin levels and activity may also play a role, particularly in affecting the modulation and regulation of the dopamine system.Cognitive learning theory examples brain activity and structural differences

Zametkin and colleagues published the first neuroimaging study of adults with ADHD in 1990. This study used PET scans to study brain metabolism in adults with ADHD as compared to a non-ADHD sample.Cognitive learning theory examples the study found that adults with ADHD had brain scans showing significantly reduced activity throughout the brain, especially within two areas of the brain responsible for motor activity and attention capacity (the premotor cortex and prefrontal cortex).Cognitive learning theory examples several studies have also shown differences in the volume, gray and white matter, and activity levels within structures such as the prefrontal cortex, caudate nucleus, ventral tegmental area, substantia nigra, cerebellum, and corpus callosum in individuals with ADHD (castellanos, 2002; tomasi & volkow, 2014).Cognitive learning theory examples brain communication differences

ADHD can be diagnosed via extensive interview procedures, behavior and symptom rating skills, third party observations, and obtaining comprehensive history.Cognitive learning theory examples comprehensive neuropsychological and psychoeducational testing can have many benefits, though it is not necessary for diagnosis. Neuropsychological testing can help you learn the ins and outs of your unique brain profile, which can be extremely beneficial in learning to live well with ADHD after being diagnosed.Cognitive learning theory examples

Neuropsychological and psychoeducational testing are also pivotal in the process of attaining academic, standardized testing, and workplace accommodations.Cognitive learning theory examples as ADHD is a disorder that is present throughout the lifespan, family members, spouses, and teachers (if applicable) are often asked to provide third-party observations and complete behavior rating scales to verify course of symptoms over time.Cognitive learning theory examples

Seek out a psychiatrist, psychologist, or psychotherapist specializing in ADHD and related challenges if you would like to be evaluated for ADHD.Cognitive learning theory examples while a primary care physician can typically identify signs of ADHD and give a preliminary diagnosis, they may not have the extensive ADHD-specific experience necessary to accurately diagnose and treat ADHD.Cognitive learning theory examples often, a primary care physician will refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist specializing in mental health in these instances, just as they would refer you to a cardiologist for a more in-depth exploration of a heart problem.Cognitive learning theory examples teachers and coaches cannot diagnose ADHD.

Cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based practices have been found to be the most effective therapeutic interventions.Cognitive learning theory examples studies have begun to show promising results using dialectical behavioral therapy as well. This is because these modalities focus on identifying internal and external barriers to adaptive coping behaviors and working towards developing new, workable actions and skills in the present moment.Cognitive learning theory examples find a clinician that is familiar with ADHD so that minor obstacles such as being late to a session, interrupting the therapist, or experiencing trouble following through on therapy goals will not be seen as a result of a deep psychological neurosis, but instead understood as a function of a brain-based condition.Cognitive learning theory examples an ADHD-friendly therapist will view these situations as opportunities to help you step away from shame-based stories about your challenges.Cognitive learning theory examples

In addition to building new skills and coping strategies, it is often helpful to process the emotional and interpersonal effects of ADHD, as most people with the diagnosis experience feelings of shame, guilt, failure, and chronic stress or overwhelm.Cognitive learning theory examples group therapy programs and peer support groups are immensely helpful in this regard. There is simply no replacement for being around other people who "get it." it's also important to remember that ADHD doesn't exist within in a vacuum - it affects those you love, too.Cognitive learning theory examples couples and family therapy, as well as simple psychoeducation about what it means to live with ADHD, can be extremely helpful in navigating the waters of relationships with this condition.Cognitive learning theory examples

ADHD coaching has been found to be effective in guiding those with ADHD towards identifying and meeting goals, maintaining a positive approach to change, and improving productivity while providing a source of accountability.Cognitive learning theory examples many seek out coaching when their goals involve improving organizational skills, time management, goal completion, and productivity.

Medication is often used to help normalize brain activity and must be carefully prescribed and monitored by a physician, preferably a psychiatrist and not a primary care physician.Cognitive learning theory examples stimulant medications (ritalin, concerta, adderall, adderall XR, vyvanse, and focalin XR) are commonly used because they have been shown to be most effective for most people with ADHD.Cognitive learning theory examples some adults with ADHD prefer long-acting formulations, while others respond better to short-acting medication. Sometimes people with ADHD take a long-acting medication and short-acting "booster" dose later that same day.Cognitive learning theory examples however, not everyone with ADHD responds well to stimulants, and so other non-stimulant medications (strattera, intuniv, SNRI's such as welbutrin, etc.) may also be used at the discretion of the physician.Cognitive learning theory examples given the rate of co-occurring challenges with depression and anxiety, some adults with ADHD take additional medications to manage those conditions.Cognitive learning theory examples