Polarity Analysis in ADHD Management
Polarity Analysis (PA) is a structured, evidence-based method developed by Dr. Heiner Frei to improve remedy selection accuracy in complex cases like ADHD. It helps identify the most likely homeopathic remedy by comparing the patient’s confirmed modalities with those listed in Boenninghausen’s Therapeutic Pocketbook.
Why Use Polarity Analysis in ADHD?
ADHD presents with diverse and overlapping symptoms, making remedy selection challenging. PA helps by:
Objectifying remedy choice through consistent rubrics
Focusing on reliable symptoms, especially modalities
Reducing subjectivity in case interpretation
Increasing clinical success rates, especially in chronic pediatric conditions like ADHD
Key Principles of Polarity Analysis
Based on modal symptoms (what makes a symptom better or worse)
Relies on Boenninghausen’s Therapeutic Pocketbook (TBR2), a repertory that emphasizes modalities over local symptoms
Each symptom is assessed for its presence and polarity:
Polarity refers to the opposing modalities of a symptom (e.g., worse from cold vs better from cold)
The selected rubrics must match the patient’s experience, including direction of modality
Steps in Polarity Analysis for ADHD
Collect reliable symptoms: Especially modalities and general characteristics
Rate their intensity and reliability: Symptoms should be confirmed, persistent, and observable
Enter symptoms into the polarity analysis software or chart
Generate a polarity score:
Higher polarity score = closer match between remedy modalities and patient’s presentation
Select the remedy with highest polarity and lowest contraindications
Examples of Useful Modalities in ADHD Cases
These are particularly helpful for PA because they are general and often polar:
Sensitivity to noise, light, or smells
Worse from mental exertion (e.g., reading, writing)
Better or worse from movement
Time-related aggravations (e.g., evening, after waking)
Cold or warmth preference
Reaction to company or solitude
Benefits in ADHD Management by PA
Improves remedy precision in children who may not articulate symptoms clearly
Especially effective when caregivers provide consistent observational data
Avoids overemphasis on behavioral diagnoses by focusing on modalities and generals
Can be used in follow-ups to confirm continued remedy match
Tools and Resources
Software: Polarität Analyse nach Boenninghausen (PA software), RadarOpus with TBR2
Guidelines: Frei’s method uses a symptom checklist and scoring sheet to rate modalities
Books: “Polarity Analysis in Homeopathy” by Heiner Frei
Conclusion
Polarity Analysis is a valuable tool in homeopathic management of ADHD, offering structure, reproducibility, and clinical success. It enhances remedy selection by aligning with observable and reliable modalities, reducing trial-and-error prescribing.
