It is estimated that 3-5% of the school-age population in the present day United States has been diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and that approximately 60 percent of those so identified will continue to have symptoms throughout their adult life. It is important to understand the underlying causes and potential treatments of this disorder since it has a significant effect on one’s ability to participate in society; those diagnosed with ADHD often have difficulty in completing college, maintaing employment, being an effective spouse or parent, and following societal norms. This paper examines the question of whether ADHD is a biologically or environmentally based disorder and the social implications of supporting only one of the two arguments. Support of one approach over the other depends on popular culture, societal values, and the vested interests of those making the assessment at any given point in time. It is concluded that there can be both biological and environmental factors involved in the development of ADHD. By focusing on only one argument, valuable insight into other causes and alternative treatments may be ignored. Consequently, all aspects of the underlying origin and effective management of the disorder should be considered.