Re: Is your IQ so high it can't be measured? ADHD superpowers

[Wgreen]

Let’s net it out. There is an ongoing debate here (and elsewhere) whether ADD is a disorder or merely an “alternate neurology.”

Those in the Alternate Neurology camp believe that ADDers are merely “different.” Yes, they may suffer from ditziness, procrastination, and disorderly garages, BUT (the gifties assert) they are smarter, more creative, funnier, and more personable that other folk. From this perspective, because there is a robust upside to balance the downside, “disorder” is an inappropriate label for Attention Deficit. “Type” has a truer ring to it.

Those in the “Disorder” camp believe Attention Deficit Disorder is just what the name denotes—a chemical imbalance in the brain that impairs the executive function with potentially devastating consequences. That there can be, in fact, devastating consequences is a matter of undisputed fact. Because research has yet to establish any clear link between ADD and IQ, creativity, or other personality assets, ADD remains akin to other diseases—arthritis, COPD, Crohn’s, schizophrenia, you name it—serious potential downside; little if any upside. Consequently, it should be treated (and discussed) as a disease.

As it stands today, the mental health community stands by “Disorder.” Those of us who appear to be constantly “negative” are in fact just trying to call this spade the dirty shovel we understand it to be. Any other approach would seem dishonest and irresponsible.

REPORT ABUSE