Diagnosis of ADHD
Biblical Perspectives

Biblical Perspectives

While the Bible doesn't appear to address attention deficits disorders directly, there is plenty of insight still to glean from scripture on the subject.  As far back as 1902, "Still suggested that this disorder was related to a lack of moral fiber (as cited by Barkley, 1997)." Barkley suggests that ADHD develops from a inability to internalize language, thoughts, especially in terms of self-directed commands. Focus on the Family provides answers to several misconceptions about ADHD (Focus on the Family [FTF], 2008).

Some Christians suggest that spanking or other physical punishment is necessary, in line with the saying "spare the rod, spoil the child". However, Proverbs 13:24 (NIV) actually reads "He who spares the rod hates his son, but he who loves him is careful to discipline him." Dr. Dobson also mentions that spanking tends to work best with children between the ages of 2 to 6. He describes a child with ADHD as "little bundles of electricity" and states that spanking may actually be counterproductive (FTF, 2008).

Proverbs 18:21 (English Standard Version [ESV]) says, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue...." It is easy for us to apply scriptures in order to justify our parenting, however are we applying those scriptures in terms of our own behavior? Ephesians 4:29 "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." The Bible instructs us to speak in order to help each other and our children to move forward, to grow, and to become more like Christ. We must be careful to not take the easy way out by immediately jumping to consequences, raising our voices, and using physical punishment. It is far more effective to use proactive, multifaceted approaches focused on positive, encouraging, and uplifting methods (Colbert, 2001; DuPaul & Weyandt, 2006; Shillingford, Lambie, & Walter, 1991) .

We encourage you to use prayer and discernment in your quest for understanding of your children's behavior. We humbly acknowledge that the Holy Spirit should be your guide in determining what is best for your child. We cannot stress enough that not everything will work for all children, but that with effort you can find solutions that will work for you.