The Truth about ADHD: Genuine Hope and Biblical Answers

by Daniel R. Berger II

"God has always been interested in our behaviors and in modifying them by means of his grace and by way of our hearts. After reading this book, I can say with confidence that parents and teachers need to consider carefully this well-researched and documented work. Dr. Berger has written this book with wisdom and discernment and has identified real problems that must be dealt with while eliminating commonly accepted speculations and false claims. The book carefully and lovingly distinguishes natural, childish but sinful behaviors and mindsets from their possible influences. Although environmental, medical, and biological issues do influence children's lives, they alone are not to blame for children's decisions. After reading this book, one will conclude that ADD/ADHD is a common condition of the heart rather than a biological condition of the brain. We finally have a resource that gives practical answers from Scripture concerning the ADHD construct. Those who read this book will be left realizing that God's Word is sufficient to meet their needs.” - Neurosurgeon Dr. Hugh Clarke

"Using the writings of ADHD advocates themselves, Dr. Berger has produced a very thorough analysis of the fallacies and inconsistencies in their ADHD paradigm from start to finish—from their description of what allegedly constitutes ADHD, to their diagnoses, and finally to their prescriptions for treatment. Most importantly, he has provided the Scriptural identification for the maladaptive behaviors diagnosed as ADHD in children, and then coupled each with biblical hope for transforming those negative character traits into positive and beneficial behavioral qualities for the Kingdom’s sake. Such transformation in children’s lives is only accomplished through the powerful change produced by Christ’s Gospel and its sanctifying process energized by the Spirit of God. Permeated with a God-ward focus, this book enables parents to discover genuine hope and confidence for parenting their challenging children, instead of having to resign themselves to merely coping with difficult behavior patterns." - Author, counselor, and pastor John Hutcheson

172 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 6, 2015

About the author

Dr. Daniel R. Berger II is the founder and direct of Alethia International Ministries (AIM), where he continues to speak around the country at various conferences and ministries. He is also an experienced pastor, counselor, school administrator, and the author of numerous books on Christian counseling, practical theology, education, and the history and philosophy of the mental health construct. Daniel attended Bob Jones University and Florida International University, where he earned four degrees in counseling and theology. He is also a certified member of the International Association of Biblical Counselors (IABC). When he is not speaking, he and his wife Oriana live in Greenville South Carolina with their three children.

Reviews

[Blake · Rating 5 out of 5]

Do you have a habit of turning the corners of pages in a book you are reading when a page has a nugget of truth or nugget of wisdom or some critical information that you will want to refer back to at some point? I know such an action probably makes many book lovers cringe but such was my action, repeatedly, as I read through this excellent, excellent book by Daniel R. Berger II.

For years-decades to be exact---we have been told that ADHD (ADD) was a brain malfunction, a diagnosis mostly found in children. And because ADHD is supposedly a brain malfunction, the suggested treatment includes medication. Over this same time period, teachers, parents, school counselors and administrators have all bought into the often promoted line about brain malfunction, about abnormal children, about this disorder that has symptoms of not paying attention and uncommon hyperactivity. Psychiatry and the psychiatric Bible knowns as the DSM (Diagnostic Statistical Manual) promoted the idea for years and eventually the label caught on. ADD/ADHD became a very popular label. Parents looked for an explanation for why "junior" was acting out, creating havoc in the classroom (Or any place where boredom ruled the day); Teachers and school administrators looked for explanation and help as children---usually boys---function in hyperactive ways and failed to pay attention during class time.

We were sold a bill of goods. We were duped. We were told that this diagnosis was rooted in scientific proof. In this book, the author shows how the label was developed and what the fundamental problem is with the often used label. The author doesn't just criticize but shows that the Bible actually addresses each "symptom" of ADHD and offers biblical solutions to train a child who struggles to pay attention and who is hyperactive, into a child who is self-controlled and
walks in wisdom.

I highly recommend this book to educators, to parents, to pastors, to counselors, yes to anyone who wants to understand the label of ADHD and the Biblical solution to such.

[Steve Horton · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Truth About ADHD is a book by Dr. Jonathan Barkley that aims to clear up the confusion surrounding Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The book is designed to provide a comprehensive, research-backed guide that offers insights into what ADHD is, how it affects people, and how to manage it effectively.
Dr. Barkley does a great job of breaking down the science behind ADHD. He notes that the diagnosis of ADHD is not a medical diagnosis. It is a diagnosis of behavior. He contends that children lack the knowledge and wisdom for living in the world. It is up to parents to provide direction and attention so that the child can function effectively in the world.
Medication is not going to achieve this result. He contends this diagnosis of ADHD is not a medical-biological diagnosis that needs medications. His recommended “treatment” is for parents to give attention to their children and instruct them by words and example – how to function in the world around us.
What I understand is that Dr Barkley believes that children are not getting quality time with their parents, and are acting out as a result. I hope that this is not an oversimplification of what Dr. Barkley is stating.
I know for myself as a young parent, learning about giving my kids focused attention, an individual time to be with one of my kids was invaluable. I am not sure where I learned about the value of “focused attention” with a child, but this way of parenting helped me be more confident and loving to my kids.

[Brandi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Chapters 1-4 were extensive, while the more practical information in Chapter 5 seemed rushed. The worksheets in the appendices are invaluable and it would have been helpful to expand on each of them as a chapter in the book, rather than making them an afterthought at the back of the book.

[Camila Andrade · Rating 1 out of 5]

He lacks scientific evidence or genuine expertise to discuss mental health.