Child development Quote by Robert Whitaker
““The prescribing of stimulants to ADHD youth began to take off in the 1980s, and today, thirty years later, studies have failed to show that this treatment helps children grow up and thrive. In a 2012 op-ed published in the New York Times, Alan Sroufe, a professor of psychology at the University of Minnesota’s Institute of Child Development, told of this bottom-line finding: “To date, no study has found any long-term benefit of attention-deficit medication on academic performance, peer relationships, or behavior problems, the very things we want to improve…. The drugs can also have serious side effects, including stunting growth.””
About This Quote
Source Article: The New York Times, 2012, “The ADHD Medication Debate” by Alan Sroufe
Long‑term studies show ADHD stimulant meds lack lasting benefits for academics, peers, or behavior, and may stunt growth.
In simple terms: ADHD meds show no lasting benefit and may harm growth.
Key Takeaway
Weigh risks and benefits before prescribing.
Themes
medical ethics
pharmacology
child development
education
Mood
cautious
concerned
Type
informative
critical
When to use this quote
- school policies
- parental decisions
- healthcare guidelines
Key Concepts
clinical research
public health
Questions to Reflect On
- What evidence would change your view?
- How can non‑pharmacological supports help?
A Different Perspective
Potential benefits may exist for some individuals; careful monitoring is essential.
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