Abstract

In this article, the way young children give meaning to hyperactive behaviour is examined. An altemative to the dominating medical model that conceptualises ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) as individual pathology is proposed: a sociological explanatory model based on the self-categorisation theory. By means of life world research methodes, the interaction between child and environment receives a central place. Observations and interviews with hyperactive children resulted in a few hypotheses. With children receiving medical treatment, hyperactivity plays a greater role in their life world and (therefore) identity, compared to children who don’t thake any medication. In the same scope medically treated children consider hyperactive behaviour more as a problem, compared to non-treated children.

How to Cite:

Christiaens, W., (2001) “Identiteit en de betekenis van overbeweeglijkheid.”, Tijdschrift voor Sociologie 22(2), 137–152. doi: https://doi.org/10.21825/sociologos.86523