For instance, they can question a doctor who says a child has ADHD by asking about the reasons for the diagnosis, she says. Or they can say, “You’re telling me my child needs medication. What else can I do?”
Ensuring Right Diagnoses
Children with ADHD can respond well to evidence-based interventions in school and at home, according to Anil Chacko, a professor for Counseling@NYU, which offers an online master’s in school counseling from NYU Steinhardt.
But first, Chacko cautions, the diagnosis must be correct. “It’s important to remember that many students with ADHD also have a learning disability or learning issues,” Chacko said. “School counselors, teachers and parents should appreciate that the challenges these children face may be more than just ‘ADHD.’”
Like all mental disorders, ADHD can’t be confirmed with a laboratory test. But educators and parents can take steps to help confirm the condition in minority children.
Tips for teachers and counselors:
- Rule out other issues, such as difficulties at home or even hunger, as a reason for behavioral problems in the classroom. Be alert to biases or stereotypes, like assuming that black children are normally more active than children of other races
- Use assessment tools that take into account any cultural differences, to ensure they measure characteristics accurately
- Learn to recognize the symptoms of ADHD
- Don’t dismiss behavioral problems as something the child will grow out of
- Reject any stigma against ADHD and seek professional help
- Communicate with teachers and counselors about your child’s learning or behavioral problems
Alexis Anderson is a digital PR coordinator covering K-12 education at 2U, Inc. Alexis supports outreach for their school counseling, teaching, mental health, and occupational therapy programs.