Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a mental disorder that shows itself through disruptive and inappropriate behavior. There are more than 19 different symptoms analyzed when making an ADHD diagnosis.
Often, laymen think of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) as
either a way for parents to explain away poor parenting skills or as a problem
experienced by young children. They will see a child sitting quietly and think
the child can't possibly have ADHD. ADHD kids can't sit still. If only it were
so simple.
In actuality, ADHD is diagnosed by looking at 19 separate symptoms subdivided
into three subcategories: inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. A patient
can show signs of all the symptoms or only some of them, usually six or more
over a period of six months or longer. Depending on the age of the child, a
trained professional will not only study the patient's behavior but will also
question the people who are around the child daily. The parents, teachers, and
day care providers will all have input into the final diagnosis. It is quite
possible for patients suffering from ADHD to have no problem sitting still, if
they are truly interested in what they are doing or if they simply do not
exhibit that particular symptom.
Inattention
When testing for inattention, the following nine symptoms will be considered.
The patient need only exhibit six of the symptoms, and the symptoms are judged
based on what is age appropriate for the patient, meaning there is a different
set of standards for a three year old than a nine year old.
Misses details or makes careless mistakes when doing paperwork, class
assignments, or other activities.
Problems paying attention on tasks or during play.
Appears not to listen when spoken to directly.
Even though trying, the patient cannot follow directions or fails to finish
class assignments, chores, or other duties.
Lacks organizational skills.
Avoids, dislikes, or doesn't want to participate in activities that take a
lot of mental effort for extended periods of time.
Loses things often.
Easily distracted.
Forgets to do daily activities, even after doing being assigned to do them
day after day over a long period of time.
Hyperactivity and impulsivity are often considered together.
Professionals look for a combined six or more symptoms from both the
hyperactivity and impulsivity categories to be present for more than six months
before they consider the patient suffering from ADHD.