Sociocultural determinants of the use of stimulants for the treatment of ADHD and behavior problems in children remain largely unexplored. In particular, international comparisons are rare and most published data uses North American figures. This paper presents comprehensive data on the use of methylphenidate in France since the drug was marketed there in 1995. Use of methylphenidate in that country is strikingly lower than in the United States. In addition, data from the first Canadian prevalence survey of stimulant use among primary-school children, conducted in a medium-sized city near Montreal, reveal large disparities between use in French and English schools. These figures are discussed in relation to observed national differences between theoretical models in child psychiatry, attitudes toward the use of psychiatric drugs with children, and educational philosophies.
Learning Objectives: 1. Review data on the use of methylphenidate (Ritalinn) in France and Quebec. 2. Discuss observed national differences between theoretical mdoels in child psychiatry, psychiatric medications, and educational philosophies
Keywords: Mental Health, School Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.