Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

What is ADHD?

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can be categorized into three different types:

1. Predominantly inattentive subtype (sometimes referred to as ADD)
2. Predominantly hyperactive type
3. Combined type (both inattentive and hyperactive behaviors)

It is harder for those with ADHD to sustain effort, attention, and motivation in order to begin and complete tasks. They often get distracted easily and don’t seem to listen when spoken to directly. Children with ADHD have problems with motivation when a task is difficult, boring, or does not provide consistent and immediate rewards. They may be impulsive, and for example, blurt out answers or say something hurtful to others.  Executive functioning skills (e.g., planning, organization, inhibition, working memory) are often underdeveloped in children and adults with ADHD. ADHD affects children in both the home and school environments, though symptoms may be more impairing at school where there are greater demands. While it is a life-long condition, the presentation of ADHD often changes as people get older.

How is ADHD Diagnosed?

ADHD is diagnosed through assessment of:

• Cognitive skills  (intelligence testing)
• Executive functioning performance-based testing, such as testing that includes one’s ability to sustain attention and inhibit distractions
• Parent interview
• Interview with the child
• Interviews with teachers and other adults who work closely with the student
• Social-emotional functioning rating scales given to  parents and teachers
• Observations made by the examiner
• Review of school records
• Since ADHD is frequently comorbid with learning disabilities, assessment of psychological processing and academic testing is often recommended.

When is an ADHD Assessment Needed?

You may want to pursue an ADHD assessment if your child has difficulties with:

• Hyperactivity (e.g., is talkative, can’t sit still, acting as if “driven by a motor”)
• Sustaining attention
• Getting distracted easily
• Controlling impulses
• Following instructions
• Starting and completing tasks (including homework, in-class assignments, chores)
• Resisting or disliking tasks that require sustained mental effort
• Organizing their materials
• Planning
• Being forgetful
• Paying attention to details
• Making careless mistakes
• Social skills (e.g., interrupts others, difficulties taking turns)
• Emotional regulation