Inner control as an operational mechanism in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

Understanding children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) through a systems theory perspective creates a view of these children as having developed ineffective systems and strategies for acting upon the world. It is proposed that just as a child must develop a system of inner control to become a proficient and independent reader, this same system is necessary for effectively controlling the problematic behaviors associated with ADHD. Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) can encourage the development of this inner control by providing services that foster meaning-based literacy and that enhance visual perception and processing strategies. As SLPs and educators seek to establish and employ embedded literacy activities, they will more effectively meet the needs of their students identified with ADHD.