Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a developmental disorder characterized by impulsive-hyperactive behavior and inattention. Some of the possible causes in the development of this disorder are listed below.
Genetic Predisposition may play a role in the development of Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Heredity is the most common cause of this neurobehavioral disorder. Clinical research performed on the subject of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder has suggested that this developmental disorder tends to run in families. Many people affected by this disorder often have a close relative such as parent or a twin suffering from attention deficit disorder. In a majority of cases, people suffering from attention deficit disorder often have another family member suffering from some kind of developmental disorder such as asperger syndrome or autism or other behavior problems and learning difficulties.
Smoking and alcohol intake during pregnancy may cause attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children
Many scientists are now discussing the possibility of a link between smoking and alcohol consumption during pregnancy and development of ADHD in children. Whatever the mother eats and drinks during pregnancy is passed onto the fetus in her womb through the placenta. Exposure to toxic substances such as drugs, tobacco, cigarette smoke, alcohol and even lead increases the risk of developmental and other neurological disorders in the affected child. Nicotine, alcohol, and lead can be toxic to developing brain tissue of the fetus and may have sustained effects on the behavior of the children exposed to these substances at early ages. Other complications in pregnancy such as oxygen deprivation to the fetus or a premature birth may also increase the risk of the child developing ADHD.
Injury to the brain may be a contributing factor in the development of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Injury to the brain can be the result of trauma such as a serious blow to the head or in case of accidents involving head injury may cause ADHD. Injury to the brain can also be caused as a result of brain tumor, stroke or disease. These factors can cause problems with inability to concentrate or lack of attention and poor regulation of motor activity and impulses.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is not caused by a faulty diet
Some studies have suggested that attention deficit hyperactivity disorder may be caused as a result of faulty diet, especially a diet high in sugar content. But there is no clinical or scientific evidence to prove this theory. Another study has linked the development of this disorder to food allergies and artificial additives in food such as coloring agents. But there is no clinical evidence to support this theory either.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is NOT caused due to poor parenting
Some theories have blamed the parents or the primary care givers of the child for a poor upbringing of the child leading to the development of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. It has to be understood that this disorder is a developmental disorder. It is a neurobehavioral disorder and is not related in any way to poor or faulty upbringing.
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