The glossary contains a compilation of words found in articles on this site, plus other terms related to ADHD.

A-F

Adderall - Stimulant drug used to improve attention span and decrease impulsivity. This medicine contains a combination of mixed amphetamine salts.

American Psychiatric Association (APA) - An organization of psychiatrists working together to ensure humane care and effective treatment for all persons with mental disorders, including mental retardation and substance-related disorders.

American Psychological Association (APA) - A scientific and professional organization that represents psychology in the United States.

Amphetamine - A type of stimulant drug used to treat ADHD.

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) - Common title for the predominantly inattentive type of ADHD.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) - Official name for this disorder given by the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM IV TR). Also, the common title for the predominantly hyperactive/impulsive type of ADHD.

Behavior Modification - Modifying or changing unwanted behaviors using reinforcement and conditioning.

Combination ADHD - Title given to ADHD with both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive behaviors.

Concerta - An extended release form of methylphenidate (Ritalin) designed to last throughout the day.

Dopamine - A chemical in the brain thought to be affected by ADHD. A neurotransmitter acting within the brain to help regulate movement and emotion.

G-L

Genetic - Inherited; having to do with information that is passed from parents to offspring through genes.

Hyperactivity - A state of too much muscle activity. Having behavior characterized by excessive activity, restlessness, and movement.

Impulsiveness - Acting on impulse rather than thinking things through. To act before thinking.

Inattention - Difficulties maintaining attention span.

Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) - One of the main federal laws that protect the rights of students with disabilities in publicly funded educational settings.

Individualized Education Plan (IEP) - An educational plan that outlines special education and related services specifically designed to meet the educational needs of a student with a disability.

Learning Disability - Difficulties in the acquisition and use of listening, speaking, reading, writing, reasoning, or mathematical abilities. May also be referred to as a learning disorder or a learning difference.

Learning Style - The method or way in which a child learns best.

M-R

Methylphenidate - A central nervous system stimulant used in the treatment of ADHD in children and adults. The generic name of Ritalin.

Multimodal Treatment - Multiple types of interventions from different disciplines, such as pharmacologic, psychotherapeutic, and family systems.

Norepinephrine - A neurotransmitter or chemical messenger that helps to relay messages from one area of the brain to another. It is involved with arousal, attention, and mood.

Organizational Skills - Strategies used to organize oneself.

Psychiatrist - A physician who specializes in the treatment of mental or emotional disorders.

Ritalin- A stimulant medication commonly used to treat ADHD. Ritalin is the brand name for methylphenidate.

S-Z

Seratonin - A neurotransmitter, or a chemical messenger, that helps to relay messages from one brain cell to another. It is involved in sleep, appetite, and sex, as well as mood and anxiety modulation.

Section 504 - The law that prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities and allows accommodations for students who don’t qualify for special education.

Stimulant Medications - Class of medications used most often to treat ADHD.

Strattera - The first non-stimulant medication approved for the treatment of ADHD.

Symptom - A subjective indication of a disorder, disease, or condition.