Developmental support as a therapeutic intervention for ADHD

Abstract

The present work describes ADHD-related problems in theory and practice. The state of research and common treatment concepts are presented. It is shown that the differing perspectives and therapeutic approaches from various disciplines have not led to a satisfactory result. By contrasting the disciplines involved (medicine, education, psychology, motology, and overlapping fields), the author aims to highlight commonalities, differences, and reciprocal dependencies. A new explanatory model is developed through examination of the theses against previous studies and in the discussion. It is emphasized that a systemic approach makes ADHD easier to understand. This model is based on a systemic view of the person. It builds on an advanced motological approach and incorporates traditional approaches from the different disciplines. In this model, the previous concept of therapy is replaced by the concept of developmental support. The approach is examined in therapeutic practice using four case examples that emerged over ten years of research practice.