Attention Deficit Disorder

Services for Students With Attention Deficit Disorder

The Office of Accommodations and Accessibility (OSS) provides support and accommodations to students with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). With this assistance, students can learn to manage the college environment successfully and reach their educational goals.

What Is Attention Deficit Disorder?

Attention Deficit Disorder is a neurobiological disorder characterized by attention skills that are developmentally inappropriate, impulsivity, and, in some cases, hyperactivity. Without proper treatment, ADD can have serious consequences including school failure and drop out, depression conduct disorders, failed relationships, and even substance abuse.

Until recently, it was believed that ADD symptoms disappeared in adolescence. It is now known that many symptoms continue into adulthood for 30-70% of those with ADD. Adults with ADD experience difficulties at work and in relationships. They may also exhibit other emotional difficulties.

Most adults with ADD are:

• Restless
• Easily distracted
• Have difficulty sustaining attention and concentrating
• Impulsive and impatient
• Have frequent mood swings and short tempers
• Disorganized and have difficulty planning ahead

What Is the Treatment for ADD?

Effective treatment of ADD typically requires medical, psychological and educational intervention. This multimodal treatment approach includes:

• Individual/family counseling
• Medication, when required
• An appropriate educational program

What the Office of Accommodations and Accessibility Can Provide

• Liaison with academic staff to determine reasonable and appropriate accommodations (extended time, separate location for exams, notetakers, tape recorded classes, etc.)
• One-on-one supportive counseling/monitoring (weekly check-in with OSS Counselor)
• Linkage with campus academic supports (tutoring, etc.)
• Assistance with academic scheduling and registration with consideration given to the impact of the disability

The Office of Accommodations and Accessibility does not conduct comprehensive evaluations necessary to establish a diagnosis of A.D.D. However, it does refer students to off-campus resources.

Philosophy

The Office of Accommodations and Accessibility provides a comprehensive range of support services and accommodations that promote the full integration of students with disabilities into the mainstream college environment. Services and accommodations are individualized to meet the needs of each student, and may vary depending upon the disability and/or course content.

Marist College supports the concept of self-advocacy for all students. The Office does not provide faculty with prior notification of a student's enrollment. Requests for academic accommodations are made directly by the student.

Marist College Office of Accommodations and Accessibility. (2003). Services for Students With Attention Deficit Disorder (A.D.D.). [Brochure] Poughkeepsie, NY: author