ADHD BACKGROUND 2Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, commonly referred to as ADHD, poses serious implications for affected individuals and educators. Given the sharp increase in diagnoses over the past thirty years, both professionals and the general public fear that ADHD is often misdiagnosed. Determining the legitimacy of these claims requires a thorough examination of the scientific evidence along with possible hypotheses. Etiology, use of pharmacological treatments, and effectiveness of alternative treatments for ADHD are all important factors in considering this controversy. ADHD was first recognized and described by Sir George Frederick Still, an English pediatrician, in 1902. He described ADHD as having core symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity (Connor, 2011). However, it was not until 78 years later that these symptoms warranted a diagnostic term. The DSM-III, published in 1980, referred to these symptoms as attention deficit disorder (Connor, 2011). The DSM-IV updated this term to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder with three subtypes: hyperactive-impulsive, inattentive, and combined. This remains the current diagnosis through the updated DSM-V (Halgin & Whitbourne, 2014). ADHD is a disorder of the function of the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine (Voeller 2004). Dopamine plays an important role in the initialization of working memory. It is also involved in learning, motivation, emotions and goals. Norepinephrine, on the other hand, is important for maintaining alertness and attention. These two transmitters are responsible for daily functioning and the ability to learn new material (Voeller 2004). It is for these reasons that ADHD poses a serious threat to the norm...... half of the article ......ERSY SURROUNDING ADHD 9 the presence of endotoxins in the urine of some children with ADHD has been identified (Pellow et al. ., 2011). An essential fatty acid supplement, such as fish oil, has also been reported to increase alertness, improve behavior, and reduce hyperactivity (Pellow et al., 2011). Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a common psychological disorder that, if left untreated, can be debilitating to an individual's life. ADHD has a strong biological causality, but ADHD can also be caused or amplified by environmental conditions. Although both the diagnosis and prescribing of stimulants have increased dramatically in recent decades, this is not necessarily due to misdiagnosis but rather to social and scientific changes. Stimulants, such as methylphenidate, are effective in treating ADHD, but alternative treatments also exist with some success.