Reconceptualizing Self-Control From a Baradian Perspective: Insights From a Study of Young Children With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

• In Event: 61.071 - Sheraton Roundtable Session 10 - Grand Centre
  In Roundtable Session: 61.071-9 - Centering the Voices of Children

Abstract

Drawing on data generated from a research project on young children considered at-risk of being identified with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), this paper challenges the dominant notion of self-control, which is conceptualized as an ability and a trait residing within an individual child who is separated from other bodies, including humans and non-humans. We employ Barad’s (2007) agential realism and diffractive methodology to explore how a 5-year-old boy’s attempt to regulate himself and pay attention to the teacher direction during the teacher-led math instruction is entangled with agencies of other actors, such as wooden blocks, a name clip chart, teacher voices, and tables. We discuss the implications of this study for early childhood research and practice.

Authors

• Kyung Hwa Lee, University of Georgia

• Stephanie Yagata, University of Georgia - Athens