Rex:
You've asked one of the toughest parental questions I have faced in dealing with special needs kids. When is control beyond their control and when am I being manipulatedor simply tolerating bad behavior.This questions is even tougher because what they can or cannot handle changes daily/hourly...and to make the problem even more complex Im constantly forced to battle with free will enthusiasts who see every behavioral issue as a will battle by my child, or indolence. For me, I go with my hunches based upon my experience and the fact that Im better able to read my children's emotional barometer.Do they use their emotional issues as a crutch to avoid personal responsibility? Sometimes. But I think, mostly not. So, I try to lead with the presumption of their good will and that they cant comply until I have evidence to the contrary. I hope this makes sense.
On another note, my son's weight was out of control 5'10- 247. When he was switched to Strattera (March 2004) he dropped almost 60 pounds. He is now 16, 6'2 and weighs 186. Weight loss is a common effect with this non stimulant ADD med.
pshurtz