Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) occurs in approximately 1 in 20 children. It is more common in boys than girls. The symptoms usually present themselves before age 7. There are three types of ADHD: Attention Deficit/Inattentive Type; Attention Deficit/Hyperactive Type; and Attention Deficit/Combined Type.

Inattentive Type:

• Can't pay attention to details; often caught daydreaming
• Avoids, dislikes or is reluctant to engage in activities that require sustained attention
• Distractible, forgetful, absentminded, careless and disorganized
• Often does not finish school work
• Doesn't listen or follow directions

Hyperactive/Impulsive Type:

• Displays agitation; fidgets, squirms; can't stay still or stay seated
• Interrupts and speaks out of turn; talks excessively; disrupts the classroom
• Appears to be constantly "on the go"
• Intrudes on others' space; calling attention to inappropriate behaviors tends to make it worse

Combined Type:

• Combination of the above symptoms