ADHD: a sociogenic epidemic?

Abstract

Within 10 years (1992–2002), prescriptions of methylphenidate in Germany increased approximately twentyfold. This may lead to the conclusion that there has been a correspondingly large increase in attention and activity disorders among children, or alternatively that treatment and prescribing habits have also changed. It is concerning that the enormous growth rate of pharmacotherapy for ADHD has received little attention, that sociogenic factors in its pathogenesis are scarcely discussed, and that opportunities for prevention are therefore neglected. This article presents an integrative pathogenetic model with particular consideration of modifiable psychosocial factors.