Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is a chronic psychological syndrome characterized by hyperactivity, inattention and impulsive behavior. ADHD can be diagnosed in adults, but typically develops early in childhood. ADHD is often difficult to diagnose as many individuals, particularly young children, may display some symptoms of ADHD at various phases throughout their lives. If signs of ADHD persist for several months and interfere with social function or education, it may be beneficial to consult a psychiatrist or physician.
Lack of Focus
The National Institute of Mental Health explains that lack of focus or inattentiveness is a primary symptom of ADHD. Children with ADHD often show signs of inattention or lack of focus, particularly in simple tasks or in conversations. Inattentive children are easily distracted, miss many details, and switch from one activity to another. Individuals with attention issues seem to become bored easily with repetitive or simple tasks, and switch amongst a variety of tasks frequently. Inattentive children and adults are also known to daydream and may appear to become easily confused. The Centers for Disease Control note that people with ADHD may also have problems remembering details of daily routines. Such individuals may also have problems processing information compared to other people without focus issues.
Hyperactivity
Hyperactivity is a core symptom of ADHD. Children with hyperactivity may have problems sitting still, especially at school and at dinnertime. These children often fidget and squirm while sitting, and talk incessantly. The New York Times Health Guide describes children with symptoms of hyperactivity as being in constant motion, as if a motor drives them. Hyperactive children typically run, jump and constantly climb onto things. New objects also easily distract these individuals. Hyperactive children will often dash around a room to play with any new objects that they encounter. A general inability to perform tasks, such as schoolwork in a quiet manner, is also a symptom of hyperactivity.
Impulsivity
Impatience and impulsivity are central symptoms of ADHD, listed by the National Institute of Mental Health. Individuals with impulsive symptoms of ADHD may be prone to blurt, or shout, out inappropriate comments or statements. Such individuals may also display extreme emotions without restraint and without any regard for consequences. Symptoms of impatience are often closely tied to impulsivity. People with impulsivity, especially children, may have problems waiting in line. MayoClinic.com explains that children with impulsivity symptoms of ADHD will also frequently have problems waiting for their turn during games or at playtime. Children with impulsivity may also grab objects away from people at inappropriate times. The Centers for Disease Control explain that people with symptoms of impulsivity will often times have more accidents and injuries than other people on average.
References
- National Institute of Mental Health: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- MayoClinic.com: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children
- Centers for Disease Control: Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- New York Times Health Guide: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- American Speech-Language-Hearing Association: Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
