ADHD, which occurs in both children and adults, is triggered by a lack of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is involved with the brain's reward system.
Current studies discovered that individuals with ADHD have a different response to rewards.
Due to the lack of dopamine, their brains' reward/motivation pathway experiences disruptions.
This causes inattention and hyperactivity because they feel less motivated to complete tasks.
Although a deficiency in dopamine is by no means the only cause of ADHD, this discovery has important implications with regards to managing ADHD symptoms.
For instance, parents and teachers of ADHD children often feel frustrated at the child's inability to accomplish schoolwork and disinterest in academics.
ADHD children are by no means unintelligent, but their incapacity to concentrate and focus prevents them from reaching their potentials at school.
In this particular situation, the ADHD symptoms are most likely caused by a lack of motivation than anything else.
Children with ADHD are capable of concentrating - your child can probably spend hours playing a video game.
The trick is to be able to bring out this same level of engagement and interest when it comes to schoolwork.
Here are some tips on motivating your child to do better at school.
- Guide your child through his or her homework.
Children with ADHD get easily frustrated, which affects their motivation.
Being around to explain certain concepts will diminish your child's anxiety.
However, don't end up doing the work; help your child get started, then encourage him to get it done by himself. - When quizzing your child using verbal questions, give your child 10 - 15 seconds to think.
- There are certain times of the day when your child's ADHD symptoms are worse.
There are also times when your child is more attentive than usual.
Schedule the most difficult tasks during these "focused" times. - Divide large tasks into small, manageable pieces.
For instance, a homework assignment of 20 math problems can be accomplished 5 at a time. - Hyperactive behavior might actually help your child concentrate.
If your child finds it easier to remember lessons while doodling or pacing back and forth, allow it. - Give your child opportunities to bring out his or her creative side.
If you see that your child has a penchant for drawing, consider an after-school art class.
If music interests your child, bring up the possibility of taking piano lessons.
Not only will these extra-curricular activities boost your child's self-esteem and inspire confidence; these are great opportunities to harness the rare creativity only children with ADHD have.