Symptoms of ADHD

Symptoms of ADHD ADHD or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, once called hyperkinesis, is a behavioral disorder that usually expresses itself in early childhood. Early diagnosis is important because intervention tends to be more effective if it is begun before adolescence.

The behaviors that indicate attention deficit hyperactivity disorder can vary from person to person. The most common characteristics are inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsive behavior.

Inattention is characterized by difficulty focusing on a specific task, particularly if it is not a task the child is interested in. The parent may notice their child has difficulty learning new things because they can't pay close enough attention to the task at hand. They may notice that the child has no problem paying attention to a video game they love, but when it comes to finishing a school project, it's like pulling teeth.

Some of the ways a parent or teacher might describe this behavior: the child's mind drifts; the teen seems to be all over the place, never focusing for more than a few moments; the student doesn't finish anything, and when he or she does, there are many mistakes; the child is easily bored.

Hyperactivity is characterized by seemingly endless activity. The child cannot sit still and seems compelled to talk, often a mile a minute. The child is restless and may seem anxious.

Some of the ways a parent or teacher might describe this behavior: the child is constantly moving; the teen can't sit still for five minutes; the student taps his feet, squirms in his seat, and talks in class even after being asked to keep quiet; the teenager is like a ball of endless energy, moving, talking, and bouncing from one activity to the next.

Impulsivity is characterized by thoughtless or inappropriate actions or reactions. They act without thinking about the consequences, and the sudden action can seem to come out of nowhere. This behavior can be risky, as when a child suddenly runs into a street without looking.

Some of the ways a parent or teacher might describe this behavior: the child just blurts out anything at any time; the teen just pulls out of the driveway without looking both ways; the student grabs something without asking first; the student never waits his turn.

These behaviors in and of themselves do not necessarily indicate ADHD. With attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, the student will show one or more than one of these behaviors persistently over time and they will be very obvious to parents and teachers. The behaviors will interfere with social relationships and academic performance.

Are you looking for a school that specializes in children with ADHD and other learning differences? Aspen Education Group offers a number of boarding school programs, including Stone Mountain School in North Carolina (for boys). Kids with ADHD also show great improvement in Aspen's wilderness programs. Click here to learn more about schools for the ADHD child

Featured Articles

How Do Boys with ADHD Learn?
One of the best ways to ensure that a child with ADHD is learning and developing to their full potential is to educate them in an environment where their special needs can be met. more...
Inattentive-Type ADHD Often Misdiagnosed, Misunderstood
Inattentive-type ADHD is characterized by difficulty focusing for extended periods of time; distractability; lack of organization; and, hypo- rather than hyper-activity. It is more likely to occur in girls, and is far less likely to be diagnosed. more...
ADHD Linked to Smoking, Lead and Common Plastic Products
Scientists have made a number of recent discoveries that offer insights into the origins of ADHD and can provide guidance for parents on preventing the disorder. more...
ADHD and Internet Addiction
Internet addiction has become a serious concern for teenagers and their parents, and teens with ADHD are at even greater risk for developing this compulsion. more...
ADHD, Criminal Behavior and Academic Performance -4ADHD
Children with ADHD are more likely to struggle in school and commit crimes later in life than children without the disorder. Find out if a special ADHD camp or ADHD school can help. more...
The Importance of Early Intervention for Children with ADHD
New research shows just how important it is for educators, parents and medical professionals to identify attention problems early and find appropriate programs for children with ADHD in order to prevent problems that could have a lifelong impact. more...
ADHD Students at Increased Risk of Bullying, Being Bullied
For parents of children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), the threat of bullying can be a double-edged sword. While their children's behaviors and possible learning differences may raise the risk that they will be victimized, studies have shown that kids with ADHD have an increased likelihood of being bullies themselves. more...
Popular Antidepressant Treatment May Not Help Autistic Kids
Many doctors prescribe the antidepressant citalopram (which is marketed in the United States under the brand name Celexa) for autistic children and teenagers in the belief that the drug will help relieve certain repetitive behaviors that afflict many young autism patients. But a surprising new study has revealed that citalopram may not only be ineffective when taken by autistic children, but may actually increase repetitive movements while also inflicting side effects including diarrhea, insomnia, and hyperactivity. more...
An ADHD Research Update for Children and Teens
Recent studies suggest that sleep disorders often accompany ADHD, but medications continue to prove beneficial for many children with ADHD. more...
Planting the Seeds of Responsibility
Children and teens with special needs who participate in cultivating a garden at home or at school enjoy improved eating habits, a deeper sense of personal responsibility and teamwork, and greater confidence. more...
Food Matters: Giving Young People with ADHD a Healthy Foundation for Success
Certain learning and behavioral issues, such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), have been linked to nutritional problems and food allergies. Although a change in diet alone probably will not eliminate certain behaviors, there is some research to support the assertion that a diet low in sugar, junk food, and additives can benefit children with ADHD. more...
Helping Your Child Cope with the Stigma of ADHD
Parents, teachers, and counselors struggle to find the best ways to work with children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). But the confusion they face pales in comparison to the frustration of living with ADHD yourself. Young people with ADHD must cope not only with the symptoms of the disorder but also the social stigma and prejudices of others. more...

4 - ADHD is sponsored by Aspen Education Group

ADHD and ADD Resources Information and Links to help parents work with their kids and teens

The Orton-Gillingham Approach to Learning Differences

In order to teach students in the way they need to learn, some of the best private schools in the country are utilizing the Orton-Gillingham approach. When used by a trained and experienced teacher, this approach can significantly moderate the learning and processing problems that stem from dyslexia and other learning disabilities.