Feb
18
Book Review: Misdiagnosis and Dual Diagnoses of Gifted Children and Adults
February 18, 2009 | Leave a Comment
Walk into almost any preschool or kindergarten classroom these days, and you will see labels everywhere. Sinks, tables and crayons are all carefully spelled in big, bold letters. By first and second grade, labeling often extends to children as well.
The labels may not be as visible, but they are certainly not as harmless. Or accurate. Words like “lazy,” “rude,” “high-strung” and “unfocused” can soon turn into written diagnoses of ADD, narcissistic, obsessive-compulsive and bi-polar.
The book, “Misdiagnosis and Dual Diagnoses of Gifted Children and Adults” takes a fresh look at these labels and how closely aligned they are with characteristics of the gifted among us. For instance, the authors lead the reader to take a new look at the increasing numbers of children diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome.
Awkward, eccentric, and introverted children are often labeled with an Aspergers diagnosis when, in fact, they are just unique individuals who may be remarkably gifted but are not necessarily able to function at their best in a classroom environment. In looking at Asperger’s and many other overused diagnoses, this book uses a critical lens and professional research to distinguish between true learning and behavior disorders and giftedness. And, it’s important to note that sometimes giftedness and learning disorders overlap. However, the “disorder” may overshadow or completely mask the giftedness within. ‘Misdiagnosis’ questions the labels attached to behaviors and brings to light how often labeled children are misunderstood and misdiagnosed in society and in school settings. For the parent or teacher struggling to understand the awkward, depressed, unfocused, angry or hyperactive child, this book offers a fresh perspective on how difficult it is for some young people to live up to our narrow definitions of “normal”.