The responsibilities of speech-language pathologists toward children with ADHD

The speech-language pathologist has the skills needed to be an active participant in both the diagnostic and intervention phases of the treatment of children with ADHD. Many of the behaviors that define ADHD are directly linked to communication. Westby and Cutler (1994) assert that "the strong association between language disorders and ADHD suggests the possibility of a common antecedent to both disorders, perhaps a temperamental or neurological characteristic linked to deficits in behavioral regulation" (p. 61). Although the speech-language pathologist may not have the security of standardized test scores to support his or her diagnosis, behaviors that cannot be tested (e.g., pragmatics and social interactions) may be keys to a child's classroom difficulties. As discussed, many of the criteria found in the DSM-IV diagnostic criteria for ADHD are characteristics of pragmatic skills. Supported by Barkley's (1993) new theory of ADHD which is based on poor response inhibition or inability to delay responses, the speech-language pathologist can be an important resource to both the teacher and parents by helping them understand the behaviors exhibited by an ADHD child. The impulsivity that is so disruptive in the classroom is directly linked to the inability to delay responses. It is agreed that continued research into the behavioral characteristics associated with ADHD as well as their long-term implications for learning is needed. ADHD is a multifaceted developmental disorder. There is no known cure for ADHD, and we are dependent on early diagnosis and ongoing intervention to reduce its lifelong effects. Effective treatment must be multi-modal and involve the coordination of a professional team as well as the child's family. It is vital that we help children with ADHD develop positive self-esteem, effective social skills, and good pragmatic language skills that will eventually have a positive impact on their functioning in all aspects of their interactions with their environment. If this is accomplished, the effects of ADHD will be minimized. The speech-language pathologist needs to take a leadership role in this process.