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Comparing Asperger's Disorder to ADHD
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Asperger's disorder is a little known condition that can be best described as a mild form of Autism. This disorder was not officially recognized until 1995 and future research is needed to fully understand the intricacies of Asperger's.
On the other hand ADHD has been recognized by different names all the way back to 1902. ADHD in its current form has been studied since the late 1980's with noteworthy literature being produced since the early 1970's. When comparing Asperger's and ADHD it is obvious that the amount of research information available is predominately that focused on ADHD, both from an objective and clinical perspective. While this may be the case there are areas which similarities apply.
They are:
* Both conditions often become apparent early in a childhood and in some cases infancy
* Both conditions are thought to be genetic in nature
* Both conditions are at least 2 to 4 times more likely to be found in boys than in girls
* Both conditions are not caused a result of poor parenting
* About 1 in 5 children with ADHD have learning disabilities while 5 out of 10 Asperger's children have learning disabilities.
* Problems with fidgeting and repetitive movement are common
* Interacting with others and communication skills are limited
* Children with either condition tend to do poorly in school; in the case of Asperger's verbal testing is especially problematic
* Impulsive vocal outbursts are a common occurrence
* Both conditions commonly continue into adulthood
When comparing Asperger's to ADHD one can't help but be overwhelmed by the number of similarities, but perhaps the same case can be made for many other childhood mental health challenges. Nevertheless, there are many differences as well.
When comparing Asperger's there is no arguing that both conditions present challenges both for the parents and children involved. For this reason professional help should be sought.
Doctors will often prescribe stimulant medications for ADHD and serotonin uptake inhibitors (SSRIs) for Asperger's. It is not uncommon for anti-depressant medications to be prescribed as well. Anti-depressant medications such as Zoloft have recently been added to the already long list of ADHD medications; mainly to offset the depressive outcomes associated with a number of ADHD stimulant treatment medications, most notably Ritalin.
As the list of side effects associated with prescription medications continues to grow many parents are opting for a more natural treatment option. Yes, it is true that when comparing Asperger's and ADHD there are many differences but there are enough similarities to compel some to seek out more information on natural homeopathic remedies that have shown to be side effect free. These natural formula have been effective in areas where similar symptoms exists such as reducing involuntary twitching, spasms, vocal outbursts and behavioral problems.
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R.D. Hawkins is an enthusiastic advocate of alternative natural health products and supplements with over 10 years experience. To learn more about homeopathic natural health visit Purchase Remedies.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Robert_D_Hawkins |
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Article Submitted On: March 19, 2009
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MLA Style Citation:
Hawkins, Robert D. "Comparing Asperger's Disorder to ADHD." Comparing Asperger's Disorder to ADHD. 19 Mar. 2009 EzineArticles.com. 25 Nov. 2009 <http://www.ezinearticles.com/?Comparing-Aspergers-Disorder-to-ADHD&id=2120586>.
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APA Style Citation:
Hawkins, R. D. (2009, March 19). Comparing Asperger's Disorder to ADHD. Retrieved November 25, 2009, from http://www.ezinearticles.com/?Comparing-Aspergers-Disorder-to-ADHD&id=2120586
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Chicago Style Citation:
Hawkins, Robert D. "Comparing Asperger's Disorder to ADHD." Comparing Asperger's Disorder to ADHD EzineArticles.com. http://www.ezinearticles.com/?Comparing-Aspergers-Disorder-to-ADHD&id=2120586