As of 2006, about 4.5 million U.S. children between the ages of 5 and 17 have been diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD. ADHD has three major symptoms: hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and inattentiveness, according to the Mayo Clinic. Because children often exhibit a combination of hyperactivity, impulsiveness and inattentiveness at various ages, however, there are key signs that can aid in diagnosing ADHD.
Hyperactivity
ADHD often manifests as hyperactive behavior. This disorder makes it difficult to engage in activities that require sitting still. People with ADHD always seem restless, often fidgeting and squirming. Such individuals often seem to need to do something with their hands and feet and might feel compelled to talk incessantly, according to the ADHD News. It is very difficult to engage in any activity quietly. Children with ADHD manifest hyperactivity by constantly running around or engaging in physical activities even during inappropriate moments.
Impulsiveness
ADHD can present as impulsiveness. People with ADHD often intrude into conversations and dominate a conversation with monologues. Moreover, it is quite common for people with ADHD to constantly interrupt those who are talking to them. Some sufferers will answer questions without waiting for the questions to be fully articulated. Children with ADHD manifest this symptom by blurting out anything that comes to mind, or indulging any impulse without fully considering the impact or consequences, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. A lack of patience is another characteristic.
Inattentiveness
Inattentiveness is one of the cardinal symptoms of ADHD. People with ADHD have very short attention spans. It is difficult for them to perform tasks that require careful attention to detail. People with ADHD have difficulty with activities that require any degree of organization or sustained focus, according to the ADHD Association. It is quite common for them to start things but lack the focus to follow through.
Moreover, people with ADHD do not seem to listen when others are speaking to them directly. Instead, they are prone to daydreams or seem unfocused even when a situation requires focused attention, according to the Mayo Clinic. Boredom is common as is distraction. People with ADHD also have difficulty keeping track of belongings and find it difficult to remember daily activities such as chores or assignments.
