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Hyperactivity among white middle-class children. Psychogenic and other causes
Child Psychiatry and Human Development
|January 1, 1977
Summary
Hyperactivity in school children is frequently psychogenic, not solely constitutional. Comprehensive evaluations are recommended before prescribing stimulant drugs like Ritalin or Dexedrine.
Area of Science:
- Child Psychology
- Educational Psychology
- Pediatric Medicine
Background:
- Hyperactivity is a significant concern in school children.
- Current understanding often overemphasizes constitutional factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the causes of hyperactivity in school children.
- Examine the role of psychogenic factors.
- Assess teacher identification and treatment recommendations for hyperactivity.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on hyperactivity.
- Comprehensive examinations of 37 hyperactive children.
- Field interviews with school professionals (nurses, social workers, psychologists, teachers, principals).
Main Results:
- Psychogenic factors are more frequent causes of hyperactivity than often recognized.
- Teachers may over-identify hyperactivity and suggest medication.
- Constitutional factors are sometimes responsible but not always the primary cause.
Conclusions:
- A significant portion of childhood hyperactivity stems from psychogenic origins.
- Comprehensive assessment is crucial before prescribing stimulant medications.
- Rethink the overreliance on drug interventions like Ritalin and Dexedrine for hyperactivity.