For what has been reported as the first research study of its kind, psychologists at Kings College London have conducted detailed interviews with 151 children between the ages of 9 and 14 who have all been diagnosed with ADHD on their take on medication and treatment of their condition.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a behavioural disorder, mainly seen in children. The condition is marked by the inability to maintain concentration or inhibit inappropriate behaviour. There are huge controversies surrounding the treatment of ADHD with largely untested stimulant medications, some research even reporting long term physical and psychological damage that can occur as a result of its use.
For the first time, the children that actually use the medication have been asked their opinions on the use of medications such as Ritalin.
Dr. Ilina Singh and her team in collaboration with the independent Wellcome Trust, developed a book and animated cartoon illustrating to the children the debate about the use of ADHD medication.
The researchers found that when children took the medication they felt it gave them the ability to think before reacting impulsively. However, many children reported feeling suppressed by the medication and that they didn’t feel themselves.
The findings also reported that children would like more treatment options to try before having to take medication and would like to be able to discuss their condition with their doctors.