Should I Medicate My Child? Sane Solutions for Troubled Kids with--and without--Psychiatric Drugs [Paperback]

Lawrence Diller (Author), Lawrence H. Diller (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: April 15, 2003

With the publication of Running on Ritalin in 1998, Dr. Lawrence Diller established himself as the country's leading expert on the use of psychiatric drugs to treat children. Since then, parents have clamored for his expertise on psychological problems beyond ADD, drugs beyond Ritalin, and, most important, how to decide whether or not drugs really are the best option for their children. More and more parents are asking the simple question: Should I medicate my child? In this authoritative and plainspoken book, which features a detailed, easy-to-access "Quick Guide to Psychiatric Drugs," Dr. Diller gives parents the tools they need to regain faith in their own judgment and make wise choices for their children.

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

Behavioral pediatrician and family therapist Diller (Running on Ritalin) presents a thoughtful and balanced discussion of the use of psychiatric medications for adolescents and children. His position is middle of the road. Medication alone doesn't solve a child's behavioral problems, he argues, and therapy and changes in discipline at school and at home sometimes can be enough in themselves. On the other hand, medication can offer some immediate relief and assist in otherwise overwhelming situations. Diller purports to cover all kinds of childhood concerns, from hyperactivity to depression and autism, but the bulk of the book deals with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), with other problems dealt with rather cursorily in appended chapters. This won't give parents all they need to know on ADHD-for that, Russell Barkley's Taking Charge of ADHD is a good, basic title-or any other childhood emotional disorder, but it is a good addition to a well-stocked parenting collection in medium and large public libraries.
Mary Ann Hughes, Neill P.L., Pullman, WA
Copyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Review

"A priceless source of information. Every parent of a school-age child should own a copy." -- San Diego Union Tribune

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Product Details

• Paperback: 256 pages
• Publisher: Basic Books (April 15, 2003)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0465016464
• ISBN-13: 978-0465016464
• Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 6 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 11.8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,161,657 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

1 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Every parent and teacher should be required to read this book before requesting that a child be medicated, September 16, 2010

By 

Love2Read (South Carolina, USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Should I Medicate My Child? Sane Solutions for Troubled Kids with--and without--Psychiatric Drugs (Paperback)

A friend gave me this book when my child started having issues with anxiety and the doctor recommended medication. I thought for sure it was going to be pro-medication, and I almost didn't read it. But, I'm so glad I did! Dr. Diller does what every doctor should: FIRST, DO NO HARM. Before getting out the Rx pad to start a child on medication that may have devastating lifelong effects, physicians need to fully evaluate the possible causes. And, if they can't or don't have time to do this, then they should refer patients to someone like Dr. Dillar who can! He gives so many case examples, there's something just about everyone should be able to relate to. He also provides behavioral techniques and a great list of resources.

My sister was visiting from out of town and told me about a friend whose son was just diagnosed with ADHD. I shared this book with her and she couldn't put it down. I ended up giving her my friend's copy to take home with her. So, now I am here at Amazon ordering a replacement copy for my friend and one for myself. I'm sure it won't be the last! Every teacher and parent should be required to read this book before requesting medication for a child.

0 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A great book for parents with kids that may need meds, October 12, 2009

By 

Tristan M. Russell - See all my reviews
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Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Should I Medicate My Child? Sane Solutions for Troubled Kids with--and without--Psychiatric Drugs (Paperback)

First and foremost the cost of this book was hands down great! It came into the mail looking brand new, and it really helped me understand the different signs of if kids need extra help or if they needed medicine. This book came in the mail within its estimated time. I really enjoy buying from amazon and there carriers.