The Ritalin Riddle: What Affects a Family’s Decision to Medicate a Child with ADHD?

Rand Ressler, S. J. Skinner

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as of 2003 the number of children in the U.S. diagnosed with Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is about 4.4 million. Parents have two options in managing ADHD, behavior modification therapy, or medication. We hypothesize that households in which both parents participate in the labor force are more likely to choose medication since it requires the lower time investment. This allows these households to maximize their joint time in the labor force, thus maximizing their joint income. Using statewide data, we find a positive relationship between the labor force participation rate of women and the propensity to medicate an ADHD child.
Original languageAmerican English
JournalThe E-Journal of Business And Economic Issues
Volume6
StatePublished - 2011

Keywords

  • ADHD
  • Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder
  • Behavior modification therapy
  • Medication for ADHD
  • Ritalin

DC Disciplines

  • Business Administration, Management, and Operations
  • Finance and Financial Management
  • Economics
  • Finance

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