Although the exact cause or causes of ADHD remains unknown, advances in research throughout the years have ruled out a number of myths about the disorder. Unfortunately, many continue to exist even without scientific backing. Here are a few of the most common misconceptions you may encounter.

• Myth: Adult ADHD is not a real disorder, but a way for deadbeats to excuse laziness, a lack of motivation, or alcoholism or drug abuse.

  Fact: Scientific research over the last hundred years has consistently identified people who suffer from impulsivity, an inability to concentrate and focus, and hyperactivity. Today, the condition is officially recognized by many federal agencies and organizations, including the U.S. Department of Education, the Office for Civil Rights, the U.S. Congress, the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and major professional medical, psychiatric, psychological, and educational associations.

• Myth: ADHD is caused by a lack of discipline in the home.

  Fact: Research shows that being stricter with children with ADHD only makes them worse. Experts say it is counterproductive to use discipline to correct the condition of a child whose biological disease causes a lack of self-control.

• Myth: It's not possible to accurately diagnose ADHD.

  Fact: Although no single medical test can diagnose ADHD, physicians use a combination of evaluations, interviews, and medical tests to diagnose the disorder with a high degree of certainty.

• Myth: Adult ADHD is caused by brain injury.

  Fact: Although some people who have been in accidents exhibit signs of behavior similar to adult ADHD, research shows that only a small percentage of adults with ADHD have actually suffered traumatic brain injuries.

• Myth: Consuming too much sugar can cause adult ADHD.

  Fact: Recent studies show no correlation between sugar consumption and adult ADHD. However, eating excessive amounts of sugar can exacerbate hyperactivity in some adults.

• Myth: Consuming too many food additives can cause ADHD.

  Fact: There may be a subgroup of people with ADHD who are sensitive to certain food substances. But a recent study showed only 5 percent of people experienced a decrease in symptoms after consuming a special diet free of food additives.

• Myth: Adult ADHD is a curse for life.

  Fact: If properly treated, most adults with ADHD can live productive lives and learn to deal with their symptoms.

ADHD continues to be a disorder that is widely misunderstood by the general public, including many people who have the condition but never realize it. By knowing the myths, you can focus on symptoms that actually signal adult ADHD.