In April 2001, PBS' Frontline broadcast "Medicating Kids," a documentary examining the pervasive diagnosis and drug treatment of ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) among primary and middle school students. This excellent companion Website offers a complete video of the broadcast as well as profiles of the four families featured and extended professional readings both on the typical drug therapies and on the controversy among scientists, educators, mental health professional, and activists over the appropriateness of drug therapy and the validity of the disease itself. Readings are taken from such sources as Scientific American, The National Journal, The New Republic, and American Prospect. Also included are links to data on ADHD treatment from UN, DEA, and university studies. In addition, Frontline has posted transcripts of interviews with representatives of the drug industry, mental health care professionals, educators, and opponents of drug therapy for ADHD. All sides in this issue get ample time to make their case in this typically scrupulous investigation from the best national news magazine on television.
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