WHAT IS ADD/ADHD

In ADD there appears to be genetic differences as compared to non-ADD controls with respect to dopamine receptors. These differences may lead to reduced dopaminergic activity. Deficiency in dopamine related functions in the frontal-striatal system is the basis of some theories as to the emergence of ADHD symptoms. ADD is primarily a frontal lobe dysfunction. The information from various measuring techniques converges to indicate decreased frontal activation. The EEG shows increased theta, Dan Amen's SPECT studies show decreased perfusion and Zametkin's PET studies show decreased glucose metabolism. ADD/ADHD is also because of a shortage of norepinephrine. Although ADD/ADHD is expressed in terms of poor educational achievements, inappropriate emotional behavior, and all of the problems seen in terms of compliance, academics, etc., the problem is not a primary emotional disorder, an educational disorder, or a behavioral disorder, it is neurological. This means that ADD/ADHD is reflected in the way the child, adolescent, or adult processes information, which is, in turn, affecting how the individual percieves the world and therefore responds to it. The point of view in working with this disorder using neurofeedback is that if we can change the underlying neurology, perhaps we can effect a more long-term change in this disorder.