ADHD: An Attitude Problem or a Different Way of Thinking?

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ADHD: An Attitude Problem or A Different Way of Thinking?

Is your child overly hyperactive? He might be suffering from the attitude problem known as ADHD. Learn more about ADHD and what you can do as a parent to a child struggling with hyperactivity.

kid diagnosed with ADHD or Attention-Deficit-Hyperactivity Syndrome

You’ve been called to school a couple of times this year, as your child tends to misbehave and often falls behind in schoolwork. You spend time helping him with his homework, and you notice he has an unusually short attention span and gets irritable when you point out certain mistakes. Your child may just have a bit of an attitude problem, or he could have ADHD.

ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is one of the more recently recognized conditions in child psychiatry. While its exact cause is still unknown, genetics has been identified as a contributing factor.

It has also been associated with other neurobiological conditions like intellectual disabilities and seizure disorders. In fact, it is not unusual for ADHD to co-occur with these conditions. A study led by E. Mark Mahone, Ph.D., showed that boys are more commonly affected than girls, at a 6-to-1 ratio.

Symptoms of ADHD

ADHD is difficult to diagnose. Its main symptoms—inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness—are present in every child to some degree. Parents may choose to ignore these signs, thinking their child will simply outgrow the behavior. To ensure an accurate diagnosis, it’s important to seek help from a well-qualified professional.

Here are some key points to help identify symptoms of ADHD:

  1. Inattention – Often overlooked, this includes difficulty focusing, being easily distracted, or daydreaming during tasks. The quiet, inattentive child may be less suspected of having ADHD than a disruptive one.
  2. Hyperactivity – Includes constant movement, fidgeting, or an inability to stay seated. These signs usually manifest more clearly over time.
  3. Impulsiveness – A child might interrupt others, act without thinking, or struggle to wait their turn. This can impact relationships and classroom behavior.
  4. Academic and social impact – Whether inattentive or hyperactive, a child with ADHD may fall behind in school or struggle socially if the condition is not addressed.

ADHD is not always immediately apparent and often becomes more obvious once the child starts school. In a structured environment with peers, differences in behavior become clearer. ADHD is typically present from infancy and may continue throughout a person’s life. Left unaddressed, it can lead to further psychiatric issues, but with support, many learn to manage it effectively.

Helping Your Child

Children with ADHD need a supportive home environment. Parents, siblings, and close relatives must avoid labeling the child’s behavior as simply a “bad attitude.” This could hurt their self-esteem and cause them to feel like a constant source of trouble.

Here are some ways to help your child cope with ADHD:

  1. Create a structured schedule – Help your child stay organized by setting a daily routine that includes time for schoolwork and recreation. Post the schedule in a visible area, like a corkboard in the child’s room or on the refrigerator.
  2. Keep things in designated places – To avoid disorganization, keep school supplies and other essentials in one specific location. Train your child to write down assignments and school projects to help track progress.
  3. Establish clear rules – Rules should be simple, consistent, and easy to understand. Consistency prevents confusion and helps the child know what behavior is expected.
  4. Reinforce positive behavior – Recognize and praise good behavior to boost your child’s confidence. ADHD children often anticipate criticism, so even small gestures of encouragement go a long way in reinforcing positive behaviors.

Addressing ADHD the Right Way

As parents, consult a medical professional to discuss possible treatments. Ask about available medications and whether they might help, while also noting any potential side effects.

Behavioral therapy, social skills training, and parental education are also crucial in managing ADHD. Both the child and the family must learn how to cope with this condition. A proper understanding of this condition builds confidence and strengthens the emotional support system around the child.

While ADHD may not be entirely curable, with the right guidance, patience, and family support, children with ADHD can thrive and learn to manage their condition successfully.