Childhood Hyperactivity Disorder

Overview

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is categorized into three subtypes: predominantly hyperactive-impulsive, predominantly inattentive, and combined. Childhood hyperactivity disorder is another term for the hyperactive-impulsive type of ADHD. The behaviors associated with hyperactivity disorder are more pervasive and detrimental than the occasional hyperactive episode. They seriously impact a child's socialization, academics and family dynamics.

ADHD

Since all children are sometimes hyperactive, additional criteria have been established to separate typical childhood behaviors from ADHD. One key is to compare the behavior to other children the same age. Does the behavior last longer or is it more severe than his peers? Is the behavior inappropriate for the circumstance? Can your child stop the behavior once corrected or does the hyperactivity seem to control him? The symptoms must be seen before the age of seven, last at least six months and be severe enough to interfere with normal functioning. They should occur in more than one environment, whether it's the classroom, playground, home and in the community.

Hyperactive-Impulsive

To be diagnosed with hyperactive-impulsive disorder children must exhibit six out of nine behaviors specifically defined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Hyperactivity symptoms include: Squirms in his seat or fidgets, leaves his seat when remaining seated is expected, runs around or climbs excessively in situations in which it is inappropriate, has difficulty playing quietly, talks excessively, and is often 'on the go' or acts as if 'driven by a motor.' The final three behaviors define symptoms of impulsivity: Has difficulty awaiting turns, blurts out answers before the question is complete, and interrupts others.

Children who are impulsive don't stop to think before they act, in fact they are highly reactive. As a result they make mistakes and frequently find they are in trouble for something said or done. Hyperactive children seldom finish a project or a game because they become bored. Their constant restlessness demands new activities.

Diagnosis

Hyperactivity disorder can't be diagnosed with medical tests, but first see your pediatrician to be sure there aren't any physical causes for the behavior. The expertise of a mental health professional is necessary to obtain the essential information and analyze the symptoms. They will first rule out other possible causes such as anxiety, learning disorders, or other psychiatric disorders. If the diagnosis is ADHD then they will work with you to develop a treatment plan suitable for your child.

Treatments

Stimulant medications such as Ritalin are often a necessary first step to help children get symptoms under control. Therapy is a critical component. Parents need to learn new techniques for discipline and behavior management. Therapy for the individual with hyperactivity disorder, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, teaches about ADHD and helps develop coping strategies for emotions and behaviors. Social skills training may be needed to teach basics of appropriate interaction, build problem-solving abilities and improve interpersonal relationships. Family therapy is sometimes necessary to help work through divisive issues.

Accommodations

Special accommodations at school may be necessary to ensure a positive educational experience. This should be a team approach, with parents and teachers coordinating their efforts to provide the best support. Teachers can help organize assignments but other accommodations should be explored. The use of a computer in the classroom, modified teaching and adjustments in testing or the curriculum are just a few of the possible tools.