Driven to Distraction: Recognizing and Coping with Attention Deficit Disorder from Childhood Through Adulthood

Hallowell and Ratey offer a fine addition to literature on ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder). The authors employ a broad, general definition of ADD ("high-energy, action-oriented, bottom-line, gotta-run-type people") and continually emphasize the special, positive qualities of people with ADD. They describe how ADD affects adults--many Americans mistakenly think of it as a childhood curse--and explain how the American temperament helps create ADD-like symptoms. Best of all are the stories and case studies of myriad folks who have dealt successfully with their diagnosis. A state-by-state list of support groups are included in this excellent approach to an intriguing subject.
- Linda Beck, Indian Valley P.L., Telford, Pa.
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.

ADD is an unfamiliar acronym for a disorder with symptoms so common that their identification as a distinct mental function syndrome is recent. Driven to Distraction informs and elaborates on what is formally called Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in children but is also recognized and treated as an adult disorder. The authors display a detailed, reassuring familiarity with its many expressions, from daydreaming to out-of-control behavior, forgetfulness, and compulsiveness. Revealing characteristics in adult examples distinguish ADD from other diagnoses; and childhood ADD is described with convincing optimism. Ranging among pharmacology, neurology, biology, and clinical findings and personal and professional experience with much practical assistance, this is an absorbing look at current efforts to understand troubling and exasperating behaviors. Virginia Dwyer