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ADHD stands for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. ADHD is classified as one of the neurodevelopment disorders.
Common Nuclear Features
Lack of Concentration
Children may find it hard to concentrate. This is often present in schoolwork as they make careless mistakes and lack attention to details. They may also find it difficult to pay attention in a setting where there are many distractions, such as a classroom.
Time on Task
Children may find it difficult to stay on the same task for a long time.
ADHD may affect the person’s daily interactions and performance with others. Children may often have inattention, hyperactivity or impulsivity. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM-V), states that ADHD can be present in childhood and continue into adulthood. The DSM-V’s aim is to make sure that children with ADHD can continue to get the appropriate care even when they get older and also continue to gain proper access to education.
Although ADHD is present from birth, the symptoms become apparent in infancy or later in childhood. ADHD can be diagnosed through observation of the child’s behaviour, interviews with teachers or parents and checklists such as the DSM-V. According to the DSM-V children must have at least six of the symptoms from either the inattention criteria or from the hyperactivity and impulsivity criteria, whereas adults must have at least 5 symptoms.
Some factors, which can cause ADHD are genetics, environmental, food consumption or brain injuries.
Disorganization
Children find it hard to follow sequences and organize their belongings.
Impulsivity
Children may find it difficult to stop and think before they act. They may shout out answers, take risks and find it difficult to take turns.
Hyper-activity
Some children are continually on the go and seem restless. They find it hard to seat in one place and move around the room continuously.
Diagnosis
