Nomenclature of the ADHD Construct in the Context of the Croatian Speaking Area

Abstract

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a pervasive and persistent disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Labeling and stigmatization of such students in educational environments is not uncommon. The language used to describe individuals with difficulties influences the ways of interacting with them and the expectations placed upon them in the social and educational context. The processes of labeling and stigmatization are influenced by the terminology of the disorder, as well as the alignment of that terminology with either the medical or social model of disabilities. The medical model accepts the medical perspective as authoritative in defining difficulties and disabilities, while the social model focuses on the social environment of the person with disabilities and/or difficulties. Stigmatization begins with the recognition of differences within a social context and the labeling of individuals who deviate from societal norms. Such differences are often associated with negative stereotypes, followed by prejudice and discrimination, which negatively affect the social opportunities and academic success of students with ADHD. The scientific purpose of this paper is to offer a scientifically established proposal of terminology that will be used in future scientific and professional papers, legal acts, and interdisciplinary communication among experts. The practical implementation of this terminology represents the applicative purpose of this paper. The primary aim of this work is to present the development of terminology related to the disorder in the Croatian language, which is most commonly referred to as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD, in Anglo-Saxon contexts, and to propose an optimal term for future use in the Croatian language. Two terms have been proposed for future use: (1) “Difficulties of Activity and Attention” and (2) ADHD.