ADD is defined as: "A significant delay in the development of age appropriate control of behavior resulting in deficits in attention, impulse control, and the regulation of activity.  These problems are particularly evident in settings where rules must be followed.  The disorder is pervasive, has an onset in early childhood, is chronic throughout development, and is not due to mental retardation, severe emotional disturbance, gross brain damage, severe sensory or motor deficits, or severe language delay." (Bauer 2)

A little bit about ADD:

• ADD is the most common behavioral disorder in American children.
• Extensive research on the cause of ADD is being conducted, but no conclusive evidence has been found.
• At the present time between three and five percent of U.S. students are diagnosed with ADD.
• It is also two to three times as likely to be diagnosed in boys than in girls
• Diagnoses of a child is done by a team of professionals, and under the new federal legislation all school systems should have a special diagnostic team.

I feel that medication alone is not the best answer.  Students with ADD also need the behavioral therapy to learn how to cope with the disorder.   I believe that student will have the best opportunity to be successful in life if a combination of treatments are used.  ADD is something that is on the rise, but it is something that luckily can be treated.  Going into the teaching field, as I am, I have a positive outlook on this disorder.  I feel that if it is properly treated our students will be able to be successful in school.  It is something that I am willing, as a teacher, to make every effort to help these students succeed.  I have complete confidence in the diagnostic teams, the parents, and the students that they too will make every effort to in this process.

ADD is a baffling and frustrating disorder not only for those who have the condition, but also for their loved ones and the professionals who work with them.  ADD may not have a cure, but it is definitely treatable.  If a child suffering from ADD or ADHD is using one of the above treatments there is a ninety percent chance that improvement will occur.  This improvement will help ADD children control their behavior at home and, more importantly at school, where many more lives are affected.  The increased awareness of ADD is affecting the lives of all who come in contact with it.  As it becomes more understood, ADD will no longer mean failure in the school setting.  Children with this disorder will begin to experience success in all areas of their lives.