Reference no: EM133528840

Explain the key difference between the "action" of stimulant drugs such as Ritalin, and the "effects" of these drugs.

1. What does the drastic increase in Ritalin (and other stimulants) prescriptions for children tell us about the way that we regard children in American society? For example, is the drug treatment of childhood behavioral problems a sign that we have become more sensitive to the mental health needs of children, or, does this demonstrate an increasing lack of tolerance for typical childhood behavior? Please explain.

2. The TED Talk for this module argues that ADHD is not a mental disorder requiring medication, but rather, a difference in cognition. Do you agree or disagree with this assertion?

3. Evaluate the merits of this argument. Based upon the fact that 90% of children who are prescribed stimulant medications for behavioral problems are boys, explain this gender difference from a sociological viewpoint. For example, is this simply a matter of different brain chemistry between boys and girls, or, is the high rate of stimulant drug prescriptions for boys an example of gender discrimination? Please explain.

4. As ADHD is most commonly diagnosed in the school system, please recommend at least three policy changes that can help us assist such children, especially those children that are struggling academically and socially.