NIMH: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

The principal characteristics of ADHD are inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity,. These symptoms appear early in a childs life .Because many normal children may have these symptoms, but at a low level, or the symptoms may be caused by a another disorder, it is important that the child receive a thorough examination and appropriate diagnosis by a well-qualified professionals.

The impulsive child who acts before thinking may be considered just a “discipline problem “, while the child who is passive for sluggish may be viewed as merely unmotivated. Yet both may have different types of ADHD.When the Childs hyperactivity, distractability, poor-concentration, or impulsivity begin to effect performance in school, social, relationships with other children, or behaviour at home, ADHD, may be suspected.
According to the most recent version of the diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (DSM-IV-TR), they are three patterns of behaviour that indicate ADHD.People wit ADHD may show several signs of being consistently in attentive. They may have a pattern of being hyperactive and impulsive far more than others of their age. Or they may show all three types of behaviour. These are the predominantly hyperactive- impulsive type (that does not show significant inattention);the predominantly inattentive type(that does no show significant hyperactive behaviour)some times called ADD-and outdated term of  this entire disorder, and combined type (that displays both inattentive and hyperactive impulsive symptoms)

Hyperactive Impulsivity

Hyperactive children always seen to be “on the go” or constantly in motion. They
dash around touching or playing with what ever insight ,or talk incessantly. Sitting
still at dinner or during the school lesson or story can be a difficult task.
Impulsive children seen unable to curb their immediate reactions or think before they act. They will often blurt out inappropriate comments, display their emotions without restraint and act without regard for the later consequences of their conduct.

Some Signs of hyperactivity-impulsivity are:

Feeling restless, often fidgeting with hands or feet, or squirming while seated Running, climbing, or leaving a seat in situations where sitting or quiet behaviour is expected

Blurting out answers before hearing the whole question.

Having difficulty waiting in line or taking turns.

Inattention
Children who are inattentive have a hard time keeping their minds on any one thing and may get bored with a task only a few minutes. If  they are doing something  they really enjoy, they have no trouble paying attention. But focusing deliberate, conscious attention to organizing and completing a task or learning something new is difficult.

Homework is particularly hard for this children. They will forget to write down an assignment, or leave it at school. They will forget to bring a book home, or bring the wrong one.

Some Simple Behavioural Interventions

Children with ADHD may need help in organizing. Therefore:

Schedule. Have the same routine everyday from wakeup time to bedtime. The schedule should include homework time and play time (including outdoor recreation and indoor activities such as computer games). Have the schedule on refrigerator or a bulletin board in the kitchen. If a schedule change must be made, make it as far as in advance as possible.

Organize needed everyday items. Have a place for everything and keep everything in its place. This includes clothing, backpacks, and school supplies.

Use homework and notebook organizers. Stress the importance of writing down assignments and bringing home needed books.

Children with ADHD need consistent, rules that they can understand and follow .If rules are followed, give small rewards. Children with ADHD often receive, and expect, criticism. Look for good behaviour and praise it.