Greetings all,
Im a single mom who has been working with the school and the doctor to find out what is happening with my son. The child psychiatrist feels that my son has some signs of ADHD and possibly other symptoms like ODD and Autism. His focus right now is to treat the signs as he is unable to fit him neatly into a box.

Over the past 3 years his issues have been growing. He will argue with adults, hit, kick, spit, and resently started to swear. When my son is with me I am able to normally controll the outbursts.

What I am finding frustrating is I talk to him till Im blue in the face and he just doesnt get it. I have tried reward programs, taking the TV and video games away and nothing helps him to behave with others.

When people first meet him he comes across as a normal 7 year old. But after a brief period he settles in and then he explodes.

I work crazy shifts as I am supporting him and myself. My mom was gracious enough to move in with us so that she will look after him when Im at work.

He is on medication which we started about 6 weeks ago. It does not seem to be making much of a difference.

Due to my shift work Im unable to go to the once a month support group we have in my area. I feel alone in this battle. Does it ever get better? Some days I wonder if I can do this? What have I done wrong? Logically I know I didnt do anything and its going to take time Im just frustrated.

I have read the explosive child, my mom is reading the defiant child then next we will be reading taking control of ADHD but any suggestions and information would be great.

I hope I posted this in the right thread. Thanks

Dixie

It does get better. My onw son is ADHD and Aspergers. Rewards and punishments never worked with him. I thought I could talk my front door into opening on command for me before I got through to him. He'd have tantrums that would leave us both exausted, last for 30 min to an hour (or more), pop blood vessles in his eyes...you get the idea.

Now he is much more on par with what he should be for his age. He can calm himself down most of the time, and he's finally understanding rules and limits. It may not be an easy road, and it can take time, but it will get better if you stick to it.

As for the medication, have you spoken to his dr about it? Sometimes the right meds take time to find, and what works great for one, may be a disaster for another.

You metioned the support group, can your mom go on those times you can't? It might still be a help for all involved.

*hugs*
Hang in there.