Hyperactivity, impulsivity, forgetfulness, and inattention are common traits in children. However, when these behaviors go beyond what can be considered normal, it can be a sign of a behavioral problem. It can be a sign of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). ADD/ADHD is a behavioral disorder that may become noticeable in children in their early years. Often, the signs of ADHD may be noticed before the child turns seven. Some other types of behavioral disorder may mimic the symptoms of ADD/ADHD so the child may be easily mistaken to have a case of ADD/ADHD when in fact, the rash behaviors are caused by other problems. Diagnosing ADD/ADHD in children can become extremely difficult because of this. In some cases, children showing disruptive behaviors may just be displaying normal behaviors. If this is the case, how can we possibly determine if the child has ADD/ADHD or not?
Determining Symptoms of Attention Deficit Disorder/Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Doctors and other medical professionals may carefully scrutinize the usual behavior of the child brought to their attention. Parents may be asked to carefully study the everyday behaviors of their child in order to determine whether the child is showing behaviors that can be considered abnormal. The symptoms of ADD/ADHD may be ruled out when the child shows disruptive behaviors in the most inappropriate times and places and in all types of situations such as at home, at school and at play. The symptoms or signs of ADHD in children may depend largely on the type of ADD/ADHD the children have. Each of the three types of ADHD has its own distinct characteristics which make it easier for doctors to determine what type of ADHD a child may have.
Symptoms and Signs of Hyperactive Type ADHD
Hyperactive type ADHD is characterized primarily by hyperactivity. Children who have this type of ADD/ADHD may show the following traits:
- Fidgeting in their seats
- Always squirming
- Difficulty to remain seated
- Always moving
- Running and climbing in the most inappropriate places
- Talking excessively
- Have difficulty focusing and finishing a particular task
- Easily get distracted
Symptoms and Signs of Impulsive Type ADHD
Symptoms of impulsive type ADHD in children include the following:
- Difficulty waiting for his or her turn
- Impatience
- Blurting out answers even before the complete questions are asked
- Disrupting people’s conversations
- Talking or starting conversations even during inappropriate moments
- Abnormal mood swings
- Overly emotional
- Invading the spaces of others
- Doing harsh things or saying harsh words without thinking of the consequences
- Difficulty keeping emotions in check
- Children suffering from impulsivity ADHD may often have temper tantrums and may at times have violent temper outbursts.
Symptoms and Signs of Inattentive Type ADHD
Children suffering from inattentive type ADHD may appear to always daydream. These children may have difficulty paying attention and may appear not to listen when directly talked to. They may also display some of the following ADD/ADHD symptoms:
- Frequent forgetfullness
- Easily distracted and have difficulty staying focused
- Difficulty finishing tasks and projects
- Difficulty staying organized
- Difficulty listening to and following instructions
- Gets bored easily especially in tasks that tend to be repetitive
- Procrastinates
- Difficulty sustaining attention in classes or activities
The symptoms of Attention Deficity Hyperactivity Disorder in children can greatly affect their performance in school. Often, children with ADHD may get poor grades and may have trouble keeping up with school activities. They may also have trouble keeping friendships and socializing with others. However, they may also have strengths and capabilities. Knowing the signs and symptoms of ADHD in children may help parents find immediate help for their children so these children can live better lives.
