Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which affects 3 to 5 percent of children, interferes in the patient's attention and behavior, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). While the disorder results in inattention, hyperactivity and impulsive behaviors, more consequences can occur for the patient. For example, ADHD can affect the child's performance in school and result in other behavioral problems.
Problems in School
The Mayo Clinic states that children with ADHD often struggle in the classroom. The NIH adds that the inattention symptoms of the disorder can cause problems with paying close attention. For example, the child can make careless mistakes or not finish his school work. This can result in dropping out of school later in adolescence. Ben Martin, PsyD, author of the Psych Central article "Problems Related to ADHD," states that 20 to 30 percent of children with ADHD also have a learning disorder, which can make school even more difficult for them. Examples include dyslexia, a reading disorder, and dyscalculia, a mathematical disorder.
Delinquent Behaviors
Some children with ADHD also display delinquent behaviors in addition to the impulsive behaviors and hyperactivity. The Mayo Clinic notes that ADHD patients present a risk for alcohol and drug abuse. The disorder also has connections with oppositional defiant disorder and conduct disorder, two behavioral problems in which the patient participates in inappropriate activities. Conduct disorder proves the more severe of the two behavioral co-existing disorders, resulting in violent antisocial behavior.
Emotional Problems
The NIH states that children with ADHD can have problems forming relationships. For example, impulsive symptoms, like interrupting other people and not waiting for their turn, can make it difficult for ADHD children to interact with other children. This can prove a serious problem with school aged children, leading to social isolation. Martin adds that the patients can also have an emotional disorder, such as anxiety, depression or bipolar disorder, brought on by low self-esteem from ADHD.
