ADHD Uncovered: Changing the Narrative with Dopamine & Positive Reinforcement
“Hello everyone,
I am Dr. John Flett, a dedicated neurodevelopmental paediatrician specialising in Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Our understanding of ADHD has progressed remarkably over the past few years, and it is my mission to ensure these insights reach not only my patients but also the wider community.
ADHD is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder with both genetic and environmental influences. It affects people’s ability to focus, control impulses, and maintain motivation, with symptoms often first appearing in childhood.
Recently, a significant breakthrough in our understanding of ADHD has been the recognition of the role dopamine plays in this disorder. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter – a chemical messenger in our brains – that’s crucially involved in our ability to feel pleasure and anticipate rewards.
Scientific research suggests that individuals with ADHD may have a dopamine deficiency or an irregularity in how dopamine is processed in their brains. This could contribute to the characteristic challenges with focus, impulse control, and motivation seen in ADHD.
Given this new understanding, we have an opportunity to look at ADHD differently. Rather than focusing on negative behaviours, we should instead strive to reinforce the positive.
Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool in managing ADHD. Recognising and rewarding desired behaviour leads to feelings of accomplishment, which can stimulate dopamine production, reinforcing the motivation to repeat the behaviour.
Imagine a world where we replace criticism and discouragement with encouragement and positive acknowledgement. In this world, individuals with ADHD could thrive, avoiding the feelings of frustration and inadequacy that often demotivate them.
Understanding ADHD and the role of dopamine in this context gives us a powerful opportunity to shape a more positive future for individuals with ADHD. I invite you to join me in this transformative journey. Together, we can change the narrative around ADHD.”
Dr John Flett
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