MBD and De-educationalization: a Countertendency in the pre-ADHD Era

Abstract

: This essay explores the possibility of a process of de-educationalization as opposed to the continuing educationalization that is considered to be a key aspect of western societies. It examines the way school-based children ’ s problems, such as inattention and overactivity, were perceived and treated in the 1960s to 1980s, the pre-ADHD era. The focus is on the Netherlands, where the most prominent forerunner of ADHD, Minimal Brain Damage/Dysfunction (MBD), was diagnosed frequently. Its popularity among the larger public was based on individualized remedial teaching in special schools with small classes, claiming success while removing blame from parents and teachers. These conditions have created fertile ground for a positive reception of ADHD and large-scale use of medication as a quick and cheap fixer of school problems. Therefore, it is concluded that MBD has played a significant role in preparing the way for bio-medicalization and de-educationalization of these problems.