Maria is strongly opposed to the current emphasis on diagnosing U.S. children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), while Chilo argues that this category is valid and lifesaving. First, make Maria's case, and then make Chilo's case.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Maria's possible points: Why are rates of ADHD now so incredibly high, especially in males? Since symptoms arise on a continuum, is it right to diagnose ADHD as a specific condition—and isn't the current cutting point for that diagnosis too low, since selective attention and issues with inhibition are normal during the elementary school years (and later)? To bolster these arguments, Maria might cite the research indicating that fostering a better child-environment fit, such as increasing recess time or providing high intensity gaming, is helpful at alleviating "symptoms."
Chilo's possible points: ADHD does have a neurological basis, as it may be caused by a deficit in dopamine production, and brain-imaging studies show these children with abnormal neural activation patterns when involved in learning tasks. Also, medications can be effective at reducing symptoms. Is it right to have children suffer the emotional consequences of being rejected by their peers, or having their school performance suffer, when they can be diagnosed with a specific condition and provided with treatments that really help?