Abstract

JERZY, Fabíola Stolf Brzozowski; BRZOZOWSKI, André  and  CAPONI, Sandra. Interactive classifications: the case of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in children. Interface (Botucatu) [online]. 2010, vol.5Selected edition, pp. 0-0. ISSN 1414-3283.

Philosopher of science Ian Hacking writes that our world is one of classifications, and these classifications, or names, have a particular effect when they refer to the behavior of people. This article seeks to present what ADHD is and how it appears in children. It then discusses the conversion of undesirable behaviors into symptoms, which underlies the identification of ADHD as a disease. From these considerations, a more general model about the interaction between classifications and classified people is proposed, based on Hacking's distinction between indifferent and interactive kinds, and also on the concept of the looping effect proposed by that author. Finally, the model is applied to ADHD, and some remarks are made regarding the concepts of social control put forward by Peter Conrad.

Keywords : Ian Hacking; ADHD; looping effect; classifying people; medicalization of childhood.