Scattered Minds

The Origins and Healing of Attention Deficit Disorder

De: Gabor Maté MD

Narrado por: Daniel Maté

New York Times bestseller!

From renowned mental health expert and speaker Dr. Gabor Maté, Scattered Minds explodes the myth of attention deficit disorder (ADD/ADHD) as genetically based—and offers real hope and advice for children and adults who live with the condition.

In this breakthrough guide to understanding, treating, and healing Attention Deficit Disorder, Dr. Gabor Maté, best-selling author of The Myth of Normal, and himself diagnosed with ADD:

• Demonstrates that the condition is not a genetic “illness” but a response to environmental stress
• Explains that in ADD, circuits in the brain whose job is emotional self-regulation and attention control fail to develop in infancy – and why
• Shows how ‘distractibility’ is the psychological product of life experience
• Allows parents to understand what makes their ADD children tick, and adults with ADD to gain insights into their emotions and behaviors
• Expresses optimism about neurological development even in adulthood
• Presents a program of how to promote this development in both children and adults

Whereas other books on the subject describe the condition as inherited, Dr. Maté believes that our social and emotional environments play a key role in both the cause of and cure for this condition. In Scattered Minds, he describes the painful realities of ADD and its effect on children as well as on career and social paths in adults.

While acknowledging that genetics may indeed play a part in predisposing a person toward ADD, Dr. Maté moves beyond that to focus on the things we can control: changes in environment, family dynamics, and parenting choices. He draws heavily on his own experience with the disorder, as both an ADD sufferer and the parent of diagnosed children. Providing a thorough overview of ADD and its treatments, without blaming anyone, Scattered Minds is essential and life-changing reading for the millions of ADD sufferers in North America today.

©1999 Gabor Maté (P)2023 Penguin Audio

Reseñas de la Crítica

"One of the most comprehensive and accessible books about ADD... challenges many accepted notions about the condition." —Publishers Weekly (starred review)

"Based on solid research and a strong humanistic sensibility... written with humor and compassion, from an unsparingly honest personal perspective." —John J. Ratey, M.D., coauthor of Driven to Distraction

Learned so much about myself...

...as an adult with ADHD and as a mom of ADHD kids. I have so much clarity now regarding my childhood, how my parents contributed to my ADHD and how to not repeat those things with my children. Thanks Dr. Mate!

Perspective changer

I wish I would’ve read this before having children and I wish it was required reading for anyone who is involved with children who have ADD/ADHD. But I’m grateful that it exists and I have read it now. Such an eye-opener and gives me hope for myself and my daughter.

Compassionate and illuminating exploration of ADD

In Scattered Minds, Gabor Maté offers a deeply compassionate and illuminating exploration of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), drawing from his personal experiences with the condition as well as his extensive work as a physician. Unlike many books that focus solely on symptom management or behavioral strategies, Maté delves into the roots of ADD, emphasizing its connection to early childhood experiences, brain development, and the broader cultural context.

Maté challenges the conventional medical perspective that views ADD as purely a genetic or neurological disorder. Instead, he presents a nuanced argument that ADD arises from the interplay of biology and environment, particularly during the critical early years of a child’s life. He explains how stress, unmet emotional needs, and trauma during formative years can disrupt brain development, leading to the characteristic symptoms of ADD, such as inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity.

One of the most striking aspects of the book is Maté’s empathetic tone. He addresses the shame and guilt that often accompany an ADD diagnosis, especially for parents who may blame themselves or for individuals who struggle with feelings of inadequacy. Maté’s personal anecdotes, both as someone with ADD and as a parent of children with the condition, add authenticity and relatability to his insights.

The book also emphasizes healing and growth. Maté advocates for a holistic approach to managing ADD, urging readers to see ADD not as a flaw but as a different way of being that, with the right support, can flourish.

Worth the read!

As a adhd mother of 8 neurodivergent children and grandmother of neurodivergent granddaughter loved this book. I will buy this book in physical form to keep on hand.

a forever go-to

It was one of those moments of, omgod, someone's in my brain. someone gets it! I learned so much about my adhd and where the behaviors oriented. An absolute must read whether you have add/adhd, a family member or even a therapist! Good grief, so much packed in here I've already listened two it twice! Absolutely incredible.

This book changed my life

Seriously, I was diagnosed and medicated at age 12-18, and have had quite a journey. Now I’m 43 and finally through therapy and medication and learning more about how my brain works has me understanding who I am am who I am not. Dr. Mate and his books have been a huge blessing to me and my present journey. Thank you —M

A must read for all healthcare professionals

This book offered me a completely new perspective on ADD. I especially loved the idea that ADD is not a disorder but an impairment. Such a wonderful gift to me and all my clients. Thank you!

Profound

Exactly what I was looking for. This book is a revelation and a complete package

questions answered

Great insights for me and my wife and our relationship. it also answered things of my childhood

Just great

Brilliant, insightful, relevant not only for ADD population but for anyone, any parent, any human