The globalisation of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and the rights of the child

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Kean, Brian Anthony

Affiliations: Southern Cross University, International Center for the Study of Psychiatry and Psychology (ICSPP), PO Box 157, Lismore NSW 2480, Australia Tel.: +61 2 66203797; Fax: + 61 2 66221833; E-mail: brian.kean@scu.edu.au

Abstract: With emerging globalisation and increase in use of the Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) diagnosis resulting in reliance upon psychotropic drugs, particularly amphetamine for the behaviour modification, consideration of the rights and interests of the child must be paramount. This article documents the emerging globalisation of the ADHD diagnosis and problems associated with the ADHD diagnosis. The claims and counter-claims in relation to efficacy and safety of treatment are delineated. Discussion of medical and sociological issues suggest that it is time for the ADHD phenomenon to be brought under the scrutiny of an independent international inquiry to establish the real nature of risks and threats associated with the diagnosis and treatment by drugs to modify the behaviour of children. The conclusions also suggest that research needs to be supported for the further development of non-drug based interventions for children in need and also to investigate the long-term risks associated with drug treatments of children labelled as ADHD.

Keywords: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), psychotropic drugs, children rights, risks

Journal: International Journal of Risk and Safety in Medicine, vol. 18, no. 4, pp. 195-204, 2006