Hiperatividade e défice de atenção

: um jovem institucionalizado com hiperatividade e défice de atenção

Abstract

The aim of this study is to develop the issue of hyperactivity, which is an increasingly nowadays subject. Children and adolescents with this disorder increase in our society, particularly in our schools. It is even considered one of the most common childhood disorders. They are a major challenge for the entire school, social and family community, what makes us agree with Selikowitz (2009, p. 11) when he says that it is necessary to change our attitudes towards those children who suffer from this hidden disease. In our study it is presented a literature review in a historical and clinical perspective as well as its causes and diagnostics. An entire path taken to reach a singular case study of an institutionalized teenager diagnosed early with ADHD (Attention- Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). Through a mixed methodological paradigm (qualitative and quantitative), we develop our case study, being the participant, a sixteen years old male teenager, diagnosed with ADHD. There was data collection from six elements: the participant, two teachers (Class Director and Special Education Teacher), three members of the institution "Oficinas de S. José", one of them is R’s tutor. This collection of information was done through interviews and questionnaires. We have used the interview as it is considered, and according to Coutinho (2013, p.141), a powerful technic to pick up data and we also use the questionnaires, and according to Anderson (1998, p. 170), as they are a simple, reliable and valid way of collecting data. We also made some research on documentary sources as the PEI (Individual Education Plan) and the ICF (International Classification of Functioning). As a result of this study, we conclude that this young man really suffers from ADHD, which has been accompanying him throughout his life, a life that has not been made easier because of his socio-economic context. We aim to demonstrate through this single example that people with ADHD are really pathological cases, a disease that affects an entire way of life. It is also shown that their symptoms / behaviours can be minimized if there is an early intervention, and of course together with the use of drugs as well as with the help of multidisciplinary teams.

Date of Award	15 Jan 2016
Original language	Portuguese
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Filomena Ermida Costa Figueiredo Branco da Ponte (Supervisor)