Barkley, Russell A. (1998). Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Retrieved from the World Wide Web: http://www.sciam.com/1998/0998issue/0998barkley.html

 Purpose: The purpose of this article is to forward a hypothesis concerning the neurological foundations of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder that names a possibly genetic defect for the underdevelopment of brain circuits responsible for self-control.

Methodology:  Information was gathered from brain imaging, memory, speech pathology, twin, and genetic studies. Precise methodologies were not explicitly given in a traditional forum.

Results: The results of Barkley’s inquiries led him to the conclusion that research does not support the ADHD-inability-to-filter-multiple-sensory-input-hypothesis, but rather due to the high correlation between parent ADHD and twin ADHD coupled with observed smaller than normal caudate nucleus and globus pallidus (indicating a likelihood of an inability to inhibit or delay an individual’s initial motor response to an event.

Critique/Discussion: Although Barkley encourages training for parents and teachers to the end that they may create a highly structured atmosphere to aid the social and academic growth of ADHD sufferers, there is no mention of viable alternative remedies. The creation of a new hypothesis should stimulate an array of new possibilities, affecting the entire spectrum of treatment options, there is little mention of remedies other than parent/teacher training and Ritalin.