The Solidification of Terms

 

Topic: The Solidification of Terms: Why It Matters?

Thought questions: 

• How can baseline terminology influence or disrupt individual/collective perspectives?
• Can definitions lead to stigmas? 
• How can we avoid generalizing & stigmatizing?

In the course of my research journey, I've discovered the importance of not only understanding the core of baseline terminology but also how these meanings shape our perspective of mental health issues. 

I spent time exploring the various definitions of ADHD.

What is the definition of ADHD?

According to the American Psychiatric Association, Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is “one of the most common health disorders, affecting approximately 5 to 10% of children in the United States. The hallmarks of the syndrome of ADHD are inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Symptoms of this condition are expressed in multiple settings and across numerous functional domains, thus demonstrating the pervasiveness of this condition.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control [CDC], ADHD is defined as "one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders of childhood. It is usually first diagnosed in childhood and often lasts into adulthood. Children with ADHD may have trouble paying attention, controlling impulsive behaviors (may act without thinking about what the result will be), or be overly active."

According to the National Institutes of Mental Health [NIH], "Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a disorder marked by an ongoing pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development.

What do these 3 definitions have in common? 

All three use some form of the word "attention."

American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. 4th ed. Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Press; 2000.)

Centers For Disease Control website; 2020

National Institutes of Mental Health website; 2020