Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
A child “won’t listen to the teacher” or “causes trouble in class” could be exhibiting the kind of behavior that is known as Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Even though the child with ADHD often wants to be a good student, the impulsive behavior and difficulty paying attention in class frequently interferes and causes problems. Teachers, parents, and friends know that the child is “misbehaving” or “different” but they may not be able to tell exactly what is wrong. ADHD occurs in 3-5% of school age children. ADHD must begin before the age of seven and it can continue into adulthood. ADHD runs in families with about 25% of biological parents also having this medical condition.
A child with ADHD often shows some of the following:
* trouble paying attention
* inattention to details and makes careless mistakes
* easily distracted
* loses school supplies, forgets to turn in homework
* trouble finishing class work and homework
* trouble listening
* trouble following multiple adult commands
* blurts out answers
* impatience
* fidgets or squirms
* leaves seat and runs about or climbs excessively
* seems “on the go”
* talks too much and has difficulty playing quietly
* interrupts or intrudes on others
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