Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a disorder in which symptoms are usually first seen in childhood. The name encompasses the major features of this condition: a short attention span and impulsive, overactive behaviors. Many without the disorder display some of these symptoms in keeping with normal development. Concern is warranted when the behaviors negatively affect all settings, such as home, school and social functioning. Early intervention can lessen the severity of the symptoms and help the person function more effectively.
School Problems
The Mayo Clinic explains that ADHD symptoms often appear in situations, such as school, where mental effort is required. Symptoms can include messy or careless work, not following instructions, being disorganized, losing things, forgetfulness, fidgety, talking excessively and unable to engage in quiet activities. Some children are said to be "daydreaming." The "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th Edition," states that children with ADHD often do more poorly than their peers at school and score lower on IQ tests. Children who are predominately inattentive have more academic problems than children who tend to be more impulsive or hyperactive.
Family Issues
ADHD can be difficult on parents and siblings who are frustrated and overwhelmed. The affected child may appear to be defiant and willful which often leads to conflicts with parents. Boys tend to be more hyperactive and uncontrollable, whereas girls are more inattentive. Home life can be problematic because the child fails to listen to parents, is difficult to control, doesn't do chores as told, is forgetful, climbs on furniture, interrupts conversations, doesn't listen when called and may act impulsively, putting himself in dangerous situations, such as running into traffic. Teens with ADHD may speed while driving or get into more accidents than other teens without the disorder.
Social Difficulties
Peer rejection is common among ADHD children. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, parents of ADHD children report that they are almost 10 times as likely to have problems with peers as non-ADHD children. Children who are predominantly inattentive often are rejected because they are perceived to be shy and withdrawn. Impulsive or hyperactive children have difficulties because they often are aggressive toward other children. They also tend to have problems with quiet games, taking turns and respecting personal boundaries. Children who have problems forming friendships are often at risk for other serious issues, such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse and oppositional defiant disorder.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Children
- "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th Edition"; American Psychiatric Association; 2000
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
