What is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is commonly referred to as ADD. People affected by this disorder have trouble concentrating.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is diagnosed mainly in childhood
Attention deficit disorder is a developmental disorder. It is a neuro-behavioral disorder where inattention or an inability to concentrate and hyperactive behavior exist together. It is one of the common chronic disorders in children. It is often diagnosed in early childhood. In 60% of cases of attention deficit disorder, the symptoms continue well into adolescence.
Classification of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is classified into three main types which are mentioned below.
Type 1: Predominantly hyperactive type
Individuals who fall into the category of predominantly hyperactive type of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder mainly display symptoms of impulsive tendencies and hyperactive behavior. Symptoms of inability to concentrate as present as well but these symptoms are present in fewer numbers as compared to the hyperactive symptoms. The characteristic symptom of this type is hyperactivity. Children affected by this condition are often fidgety and restless. They tend to squirm in their seats. They move around constantly, touching things, playing with anything around them, and dashing around. They tend to talk constantly without even bothering to see if the other person is listening or not. They are extremely impulsive and impatient. They are unable to control their emotions. They often tend to speak at inappropriate times or speak inappropriately causing trouble among friends and family. They show their emotions without any restraint. They speak without bothering about the consequences.
Type 2: Predominantly inattentive type
Individuals who fall into the category of predominantly inattentive type of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder show both the characteristic symptoms of inability to concentrate as well as hyperactive behavior. However, the marked symptom in this type of individual is difficulty in concentrating or paying attention. This is especially evident when lots of things are going on around them. The child may be easily distracted. He is unable to concentrate thereby falling behind in his homework or school assignments. He is unable to pay attention to details. He tends to forget things easily. He often loses things as he is unable to remember where he kept them. He has trouble organizing his work. He tends to daydream and gets confused easily.
Type 3: Combined type of hyperactive and inattentive behavior
Some individuals display both the characteristic symptoms of impulsive and hyperactive behavior along with concentration problems. In this type of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder both the symptoms co-exist at a similar level.
Diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is often difficult as children affected by this disorder may show other problems such as anxiety and depression. For a child to be diagnosed with ADHD the symptoms must be present before the age of 7 and must continue for at least 6 months.
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