But if one has found a work-around, is the problem corrected, or has there just been an alternative method for problem solving? Its like insulin shots for diabetics; although there is no cure, there is a work-around. The problem still exists, it's just a way of managing. I hope that somewhat clarifies the point I was trying to make earlier.
I am by no means an expert, and frankly am surprised I am responding to this thread since the title alone sent little messages to me to stay away since I wasn't exactly sure of what neuroplasticity was, LOL.
That being said, there is a lot of questions and discussion but I will respond to a bit of it. In regard to ADHD and whether the problem is corrected if one has found a way around it in the brain, or if is still there and there is an alternate way of problem-solving...my thinking is it doesn't really matter. When you think about it, medication isn't a cure either...it's a way to solve a problem. For those on medication for ADHD, they will find if they go off the medication, the symptoms will persist. So even if there was another way around the problem in the brain, it doesn't really matter. As long as the symptoms lessen, go away, or are more tolerable to deal with. That's my thinking, even if it is not all that educated and research base.
Regarding a slightly more research-based response, I recently went to a conference on self-regulation that was fascinating. In part of the conference We were discussing TBI, and frontal lobe injuries, and how there has been a recent study regarding a young boy that was missing part of his frontal lobe, but rewired and was using other parts of his brain to perform functions that weren't thought possible. He was able to problem-solve, had fair impulse-control, as well as appropriate social behavior. This was the first time they have seen this in someone missing those "crucial" parts. They were able to see in an MRI what parts of his brain he was using to compensate. It's quite fascinating to think that at least in certain circumstances a brain is able to create new pathways...even if it isn't all that common. It creates hope that it is possible. I find it all fascinating.