The current e-letter from Schwab Learning includes an article by pediatrician and child psychiatrist V. Joshi Shashank, M.D. I've excerpted what I regard as key points, and encourage you to consult the article at http://www.schwablearning.org/. Here he is, responding to a question about what kids with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD) go through in the teens.

"When a child with AD/HD reaches early adolescence (age 11-14) several factors may affect his ability to cope......Younger teens typically have the most trouble accepting that they have AD/HD, and they're often less eager to try ways to cope with it.....For the first time, they may notice that they're "different" from their peers, and may lack confidence in social, family, and academic situations.

"A small group of teens with AD/HD may develop patterns of antisocial behavior and/or substance abuse. In fact, those at highest risk for the latter are those whose AD/HD has not been treated or managed properly. (Early treatment may have a direct positive effect.)

"Before discussing AD/HD with your teenager, you'll want to understand the cause and effects of the condition. Keep the following facts in mind: AD/HD has a biological basis. Brain chemicals called neurotransmitters carry signals for self-control, attention, and concentration throughout the brain...and they need to be better regulated and rebalanced in people with AD/HD. Environment has a lot to do with how well a person adjusts to having AD/HD......For example, if keeping schoolwork organized is a struggle for your teen, you might help him choose and learn how to use a personal organizer.

"What to tell your teen: AD/HD is nobody's fault--not yours, mine, or your teachers'! You're not "crazy" if you have AD/HD...... AD/HD usually lasts a lifetime....Think of AD/HD as a challenge, not an excuse.....Your physical health influences how much control you have over the symptoms. The better you take care of your body, the better you'll adjust to the challenges of living with AD/HD.

"Although teens with AD/HD feel they should have exactly the same rules and privileges as their non-affected peers, parents of teens with AD/HD have good reason to be extra-vigilant......Hold regular family meetings to discuss problems and propose solutions to family conflicts. Use behavior contracts, especially those which reward positive behavior and voluntary acts of helpfulness by your teen. Be an authoritative parent with a firm, warm, and loving approach. Set rules which involve your teens in decision-making, provide reasons for rules, and give frequent positive regard and focused (non-lecturing) time to your teen......it is especially good for those with AD/HD, in that it fosters independence."