Table of Contents:

• An Introduction to ADHD
• Symptoms of ADHD
• Problems Related to ADHD
• Causes of ADHD
• How is ADHD diagnosed?
• Treatment of ADHD
• Additional Treatments for ADHD
• ADHD in Adults
• Getting Help for ADHD
• Future Directions in ADHD
• Resources for ADHD

The main features of attention deficit disorder (or ADHD) are inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. But because most young children display these behaviors from time to time, it is important not to assume that every child you see with these symptoms has ADHD. However, if the symptoms continue, advice should be sought from a qualified mental health professional.

Symptoms of attention deficit disorder usually develop over several months. In general, impulsiveness and hyperactivity are observed before one notices the lack of attention, which often appears later. It also may go unnoticed because the “inattentive daydreamer” may be overlooked when the child who “can’t sit still” at school or is otherwise disruptive will be noticed. The observable symptoms of ADHD will therefore vary a great deal depending on the situation and the specific demands it makes on the child’s self-control.

Different forms of ADHD may result in the child being labeled differently. For example, an impulsive child may be labeled a “discipline problem.” A passive child may be described as “unmotivated.” But ADHD could be the cause of both behavior patterns. It may only be suspected once the child’s hyperactivity, distractibility, lack of concentration, or impulsivity start affecting school performance, friendships, or behavior at home.

The official diagnosis of ADHD includes the three major symptoms (inattentiveness, hyperactivity and impulsiveness). The most recent version of the handbook for mental health professionals states that people with ADHD may have any or all of the major symptoms.

Three subtypes of ADHD are recognized by professionals:

• Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type — If symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity but not symptoms of inattention have been shown for at least six months to an extent that is disruptive and inappropriate for the individual’s developmental level.
• Predominantly Inattentive Type — If symptoms of inattention but not symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity have been shown for at least six months to an extent that is disruptive and inappropriate for the individual’s developmental level.
• Combined Type — If symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity have been shown for at least six months to an extent that is disruptive and inappropriate for the individual’s developmental level.

Hyperactive/Impulsive Type of ADHD

Hyperactive children always seem to be “on the go” or constantly in motion. They dash around touching or playing with whatever is in sight, or talk incessantly. Sitting still at dinner or during a school lesson or story can be difficult. They squirm and fidget in their seats or roam around the room. Or they may wiggle their feet, touch everything, or noisily tap their pencil. Hyperactive teenagers or adults may feel internally restless. They often feel the need to stay busy and may try to do several things at once.

Impulsive children seem unable to control their immediate reactions or think before they act. They will often blurt out inappropriate comments, show their emotions without restraint, and act without considering the consequences. They may find it hard to wait for things they want, or to take their turn in games. They may grab a toy from another child or hit out when upset. As teenagers or adults, impulsive people may choose to do things that have an instant reward instead of seeing through activities which take more effort but would lead to greater but delayed rewards.

Indicators of hyperactivity-impulsivity:

• Feeling restless, fidgeting with hands or feet, and squirming while seated
• Running, climbing, or leaving a seat in situations where sitting or quiet behavior is expected
• Blurting out answers before hearing the whole question
• Interrupting or intruding on others
• Having difficulty waiting in line or taking turns or enjoying leisure activities quietly
• Adolescents or adults may feel very restless, as if “driven by a motor”, and talk excessively.

Dr. John Grohol is the founder & CEO of Psych Central. He is an author, researcher and expert in mental health online, and has been writing about online behavior, mental health and psychology issues -- as well as the intersection of technology and human behavior -- since 1992. Dr. Grohol sits on the editorial board of the journal Cyberpsychology, Behavior and Social Networking and is a founding board member and treasurer of the Society for Participatory Medicine.

    Last reviewed: By John M. Grohol, Psy.D. on 30 Jan 2013
    Published on PsychCentral.com. All rights reserved.