Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is a childhood neurodevelopmental disorder marked by persistent inattention and difficulty with sustained focus.

The primary symptoms include inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.

Inattention includes distractibility, difficulty sustaining focus, and forgetfulness.

Hyperactivity involves constant movement and fidgeting.

Impulsivity involves acting without planning or thinking, including difficulty delaying gratification.

Boys are 2 to 4 times more likely than girls to develop ADHD. Among those diagnosed, 30% to 80% continue to experience symptoms into adulthood.

Neuroimaging reveals reduced activity in the prefrontal cortex with reduced cortical thickness in affected individuals, areas critical for planning and behavior control.

Cognitive theories link deficits in executive functioning, like poor working memory and emotion regulation, to academic challenges.

Lastly, the risk factors of ADHD include genetic predisposition, premature birth, low birth weight, prenatal alcohol or smoking exposure, childhood trauma, poverty, and lead or pesticide exposure.