Write a 750-1,000-word essay that analyzes the rhetorical situation of a public document. This public document is the Centers for Disease Control’s (CDC) website on Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) found at: http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/facts.html. Your analysis should include at least TWO scholarly sources outside of class texts. Must
Sample Answer
Sample Answer
Introduction
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website on Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) serves as a public document that provides valuable information regarding the disorder. This essay will analyze the rhetorical situation of the CDC’s ADHD website, examining its purpose, audience, and context. By conducting this analysis, we can gain a deeper understanding of how the CDC effectively communicates information about ADHD to the public.
Purpose of the Document
The primary purpose of the CDC’s ADHD website is to educate the public about the disorder, including its symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and potential impact on individuals’ lives. The website aims to provide accurate and reliable information to help individuals, families, educators, and healthcare professionals understand ADHD better.
Audience
The intended audience of the CDC’s ADHD website is broad and diverse. The document appeals to parents, caregivers, teachers, healthcare providers, and individuals themselves who seek information about ADHD. The language used is accessible to a general audience, avoiding excessive technical jargon and utilizing plain language to ensure comprehension.
Context
The context in which the CDC’s ADHD website exists is crucial to understanding its rhetorical situation. ADHD is a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder that affects both children and adults. It is often misunderstood or stigmatized, leading to misconceptions and misinformation. The CDC’s website aims to address these issues by providing evidence-based information and dispelling common myths surrounding ADHD.
Analysis of Rhetorical Appeals
Ethos: The CDC establishes its credibility through the use of authoritative sources and expert opinions. The website cites scientific studies, references reputable institutions, and provides statistics from reliable sources such as the National Survey of Children’s Health. This use of ethos enhances the credibility of the information presented.
Logos: The website employs logical appeals by presenting information in a structured and organized manner. It provides clear sections on symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and resources. The use of subheadings makes it easy for visitors to navigate the site and find the specific information they are seeking. Additionally, the inclusion of statistics and research findings supports the logical appeal of the document.
Pathos: While the primary focus of the CDC’s website is on providing factual information, it also appeals to emotions by addressing the concerns and challenges faced by individuals with ADHD and their families. By acknowledging the impact of ADHD on daily life, relationships, and academic performance, the website creates empathy and understanding.
Analysis of Design Elements
Use of Visuals: The CDC’s ADHD website incorporates visuals such as images, infographics, and videos to enhance understanding and engagement. These visual elements break up text-heavy sections and provide visual representations of key concepts or data. For example, infographics illustrate statistics related to ADHD prevalence or treatment options.
Clarity of Navigation: The website’s layout is user-friendly and easy to navigate. The main menu presents clear categories that allow visitors to access specific information quickly. Subheadings within each section further aid navigation, ensuring that users can find relevant content efficiently.
Readability: The CDC utilizes plain language throughout the website to ensure that the information is accessible to a wide audience. Complex terms are defined or explained in simple terms, making it easier for individuals without a medical background to comprehend the content.
Scholarly Sources
To further analyze the rhetorical situation of the CDC’s ADHD website, two scholarly sources provide valuable insights:
Brown, R.T., et al. (2005). “American Academy of Pediatrics Clinical Practice Guideline: Treatment of the School-Aged Child With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.” Pediatrics, 115(6), 144-1456.
This article discusses clinical for treating school-aged children with ADHD. highlights the importance of evidence-based treatment options and offers recommendations for providers. Understanding these guidelines helps how well the CDC’s website aligns with established best.
Visser, S.N et al.2014). “Vital Signs: National and State-Specific Patterns of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Treatment Among Insured Children Aged 2–5 Years — United States, 2008–2014.” Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), 63(33), 719–726.
This study examines trends in ADHD treatment among insured children aged 2-5 years in the United States. Analyzing this source allows us to evaluate whether the CDC’s website addresses specific age groups adequately.
Conclusion
The CDC’s ADHD website effectively fulfills its purpose by providing accurate and accessible information to a diverse audience. By considering its rhetorical situation – including purpose, audience, context, rhetorical appeals, and design elements – we can appreciate how this public document educates individuals about ADHD while dispelling myths and reducing stigma. By utilizing credible sources, employing logical appeals, appealing to emotions when necessary, and incorporating visual elements, the CDC successfully communicates valuable information about ADHD to the public.
