B1 · 3,149 words · English

ADHD 2.0

Edward M. Hallowell and John J. Ratey

Edward M. Hallowell and John J. Ratey, leading experts in attention and cognitive disorders, introduce a forward-thinking perspective on ADHD. They challenge common misconceptions by emphasizing ADHD's neurological underpinnings and advocating for treatments and strategies that regard ADHD symptoms as differences rather than deficits. Their approach combines medication, behavioral therapies, lifestyle adjustments, and a positive reinterpretation of ADHD, aiming to support individuals in harnessing their potential. By highlighting the unique strengths of those with ADHD and providing practical support strategies, their work significantly contributes to a more compassionate and comprehensive understanding of the condition. This approach not only aids those directly affected by ADHD but also informs educators, clinicians, and the general public, fostering a supportive environment where individuals with ADHD can thrive.

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Words you’ll meet

The words readers of this text looked up most, each with its meaning and the line it comes from.

impulsivity / ɪmˈpʌlsɪvənəs /noun

The quality of being impulsive; acting without thinking

ADHD is commonly characterized by symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.

rashnessspontaneity

exacerbate / ɪɡˈzæsərbeɪt /verb

To make a problem or situation worse

Misdiagnosis can lead to inappropriate treatments that not only fail to alleviate the symptoms of ADHD but potentially exacerbate the underlying condition.

aggravateworsen

comprehensive / ˌkɑːmprɪˈhensɪv /adjective

Including or dealing with all or nearly all elements or aspects of something

They are particularly noted for their progressive and comprehensive approaches to understanding and managing ADHD.

thoroughcompleteexhaustive

underpinnings / ˌʌndərˈpɪnɪŋz /noun

fundamental basis or support

The theory has strong biological underpinnings.

foundationsbasisinfrastructure

distractibility / dɪˈstræktɪbɪləti /noun

The state of being easily distracted or having difficulty focusing

His distractibility made it hard to complete tasks.

attention deficitinattentionfocus

hyperactivity / ˌhaɪpərækˈtɪvəti /noun

A condition characterized by excessive activity and difficulty in maintaining attention

The child's hyperactivity made it difficult for him to focus in class.

impulsivityinattention

to thrive / tuː θraɪv /verb

To prosper or flourish; to grow vigorously

With the right support, individuals with ADHD can thrive.

flourishprospersucceed

mitigate / ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt /verb

Make less severe, serious, or painful

These strategies can mitigate the negative impacts of the condition.

alleviatereducelessenease

inattentive / ˌɪnəˈtentɪv /adjective

Marked by or resulting from failure to concentrate

The key difference between ADHD and the former ADD is that ADHD includes three subtypes: primarily inattentive, primarily hyperactive-impulsive, and combined.

distractedforgetfulcareless

strain / streɪn /verb

to cause worry or problems for someone or something

The long hours strain their relationship.

burdenovertaxtaxtry

abrupt / əˈbrʌpt /adjective

sudden and unexpected

The impulsivity and emotional dysregulation that are common in ADHD can result in abrupt outbursts of anger.

suddenunexpected

alleviate / əˈliːvieɪt /verb

To make suffering, deficiency, or a problem less severe

Medication can alleviate symptoms.