Adhd in Adolescence
By: Venidikt • Research Paper • 509 Words • March 28, 2010 • 1,272 Views
Adhd in Adolescence
Running head: ADHD IN ADOLESCENCE
ADHD in Adolescence
Jodi Bridgeman
Columbia College
ADHD in Adolescence
Parents are distressed when they receive a note from school saying that their child won't listen to the teacher or causes trouble in class. One possible reason for this kind of behavior is 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.
Any child may show inattention, distractibility, impulsivity, or hyperactivity at times, but the child with ADHD shows these symptoms and behaviors more frequently and severely than other children of the same age or developmental level. ADHD occurs in 3-5% of school age children (Attention 1999). 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 (Attention 1999).
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
A child presenting with ADHD symptoms should have a comprehensive evaluation. Parents should ask their pediatrician or family physician to refer them to a child and adolescent psychiatrist, who can diagnose and treat this medical condition. A child with