Attention-deficit/hyperactivity Disorder In Children Symptoms

nAttention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is sometimes called ADHD. It is a chronic condition and the most commonly diagnosed behavioral disorder among children and adolescents, and affects between 3 and 5 percent of school-aged children in a 6-month period (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 1999).nnChildren and adolescents diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder have a difficult time controlling their behavior in school and social settings. They tend to be accident-prone as well. Many children and adolescents with this disorder may not earn high grades in school, but will have normal or above-normal intelligence.nnThere are three types of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. They are:nn• Inattentiven• Hyperactive-impulsiven• Combined attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (the most common of all three types)nnInattentive type symptoms include:nn• Short attention spansn• Easily distractedn• Does not pay attention to detailsn• Makes many mistakesn• Fails to finish thingsn• Has trouble remembering thingsn• Does not seem to listenn• Is not able to stay organizednnHyperactive-impulsive type symptoms include:nn• Fidget and squirmn• Unable to stay seated or play quietlyn• Run or climb too much or when they should notn• Talk too much or when they should notn• Blurt out answers before questions are completedn• Have trouble taking turnsn• Interrupt othersnnCombined attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder symptoms include:nn• A combination of the inattentive and the hyperactive-impulsive type symptomsnnWhen is a diagnosis of one of the attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorders made?nn• When children have several of the above symptoms that begin before age 7 and last at least 6 monthsn• In general, the symptoms have to be observed in at least two different settings, such as home and schoolnnSource: SAMHSA’s National Mental Health Information CenternnDisclaimer: The information in this article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. All health concerns should be addressed by a qualified health care professional.nnnnThis article is FREE to publish with the resource box. nn