Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), sometimes referred to as Attention Deficit Disorder (A.D.D.), is a common problem that many children or teens may experience. ADHD is classified into different subtypes including an Inattentive type (which was previously called A.D.D.), a Hyperactive – Impulsive type, and a Combined type. ADHD can affect both boys and girls, though boys have a tendency to display more outward symptoms that can be mislabeled as behavioral issues as a result of hyperactivity and impulsiveness.

ADHD will often impact academic, behavioral, social, and home performance and relationships. In fact, one of the more common complaints of parents of children with ADHD is that their child or teen experiences social difficulties that may result in peer problems or difficulties in establishing and maintaining friendships. This is also frequently the reason why children with ADHD will sometimes exhibit symptoms of depression, anxiety, or sadness.

Another difficult adjustment issue for children with ADHD may revolve around school performance and school interactions. A child with ADHD may get in more trouble with his or her teacher and be perceived as noncompliance or intentionally defiant. Often times, children with ADHD do not wish to cause problems in school or at home, but have increased difficulty managing their impulsive behaviors or focusing on what they were asked to do. Difficulty with organization and following directions are also common problems with ADHD often resulting in deficits in academic functioning and behavioral problems. Children may also display increased challenges with flexibility in thinking and have a difficult time seeing others’ perspectives or changing gears. Many symptoms can result in punishment from teachers or adults, particularly before a proper diagnosis and accommodations can be made, which makes the symptoms especially frustrating for the child/teen.

 

Signs and symptoms of an Attention Deficit Disorder in children or adolescents may include:

• History of poor achievement in school despite high intelligence

• Difficulty and resistance to completing homework, boring tasks, and studying

• Challenges with organization and initiating projects or assignments

• Low frustration tolerance for boredom or difficult activities

• Difficulty following directions

• Difficulties in social functioning or problems with peers

• Difficulty focusing and paying attention

• Forgetfulness and a tendency to lose things

• Hyperactive behaviors including difficulty sitting still

• Speaking without thinking

• Blurting things out or interrupting others