ADHD is a common problem in children and has been a source of controversy for over 50 years. Some experts believe that ADHD is merely a mixture of symptoms used to describe “bratty” children. Other experts contend that it is a medical syndrome. Furthermore, some research studies claim that as high as 10% of all American children show signs of ADHD, while other research studies argue that between 3% and 5% is a more accurate range. These discrepancies exist because diagnosis of ADHD is difficult. No laboratory test or study can scientifically identify ADHD in children. Therefore, parents, teachers and other professionals must make their own diagnoses based upon observations of a child’s behavior over time.
The following is a list of symptoms that may lead to a diagnosis of ADHD. It is important to
realize that ADHD children may not show any one of these symptoms at all times. There also are times when they may seem quiet, depressed or withdrawn. Many “normal” children display some of these symptoms from time to time as they grow and develop. Children who are truly ADHD, though, display many of these symptoms regularly, excessively and to a severe degree over an extended time period.
Accidental proneness
Aggressiveness
Cannot accept discipline
Cannot sit still
Cannot stay on task
Changes activities often
Clumsiness
Cries easily or often
Daydreams
Jekyll/Hyde personality
Disorganization
Does not pay attention
Easily bored
Feelings easily hurt
Fidgets
Forgetfulness
Immaturity
Impulsiveness
Low frustration tolerance
Low self-esteem
Excitability
Poor coordination
Recklessness
Resists showing or receiving affection
Runs rather than walks
Shows poor judgment
Stubbornness
Talks constantly
Throws temper tantrums
Unpredictability
Unusual energy
Works best under direct supervision
Yells out in class
Every situation is difficult with a nonspecific disorder such as ADHD. Some of these children
begin manifesting ADHD in the womb with excessive kicking. Other children may not show
symptoms of ADHD until later in life. What follows is a list of symptoms that may indicate
ADHD at different stages of human development.
Infancy
Colic
Irritability
Unpredictability
Feeding problems
Sleeping problems
Preschool
Crankiness
Excessive activity
Excessive hunger
Moodiness
Problems getting along with playmates
Reckless behaviors
Temper tantrums
Elementary School
Acting without thinking
Not paying attention
Easily distracted
Performance varying from day to day
Problems staying seated
Talking out in class
Adolescence
Not working up to ability
Memory problems
Problems concentrating on tasks
Restlessness
Young Adult
Accident proneness
Abusing alcohol or other drugs
Relationship problems
Susceptibility to unemployment or underemployment *
*Adapted from our book, ADHD Children & Adolescents
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