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The ADHD definition is really quite straightforward. The initials stand for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and it is more commonly called ADD, or Attention Deficit Disorder. They are considered the same by many. Most importantly, ADHD is not a learning disability. Its primary characteristics, which will almost always appear before the age of seven, are hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. Symptoms could appear at different times - it's very simple to notice hyperactive behavior when it starts in a class, but when a child is daydreaming or inattentive in other areas, it could be overlooked. The inability to stay focuses usually shows up later than the impulsive or hyperativity. Many times this disorder isn't diagnosed or misdiagnosed. Passive, inattentive children are often mistaken for being unmotivated or uncaring about school, while a hyperactive or impulsive child might seem more like a troublemaker. At one time or another, most kids can appear impulsive, overactive or inattentive. In these situations, a child might be one of the three types of ADHD. It is when these symptoms begin to affect their relationships with other children, family members, and their teachers; when they cannot perform appropriately in the classroom and they cannot seem to complete homework or even understand assignments, that you should consider the possibility of ADHD. Unfortunately, it is not that easy to diagnose. The ADHD definition classifies three different types: - ADHD Inattentives: children will appear inattentive, have problems focussing on details, have trouble remembering details and are distracted easily from projects and tasks. - ADHD Hyperactive/Impulsive Type - These kids are often fidgeters, talk nonstop, interrupt, cannot sit for long periods of time, will not wait until it is their turn…are usually impulsive and constantly on the go. - ADHD Combination: All of the symptoms listed above. Anecdotal evidence tends to show that boys are two to four times more likely to be diagnosed with this disorder. At this time, it appears that between 3 and 5% of children in the US have ADHD to some extent. Slightly lower, some 2-4% of adults also deal with this disorder. Adults who have never been diagnosed with ADHD will usually have difficulty in relationships, personal finances, home management, planning and goal setting and organization. Do not always expect your child to be constant in his abilities. He might remember a complex game or computer sequence; however, some simpler things may prove difficult. Mastering handwriting may be a challenge he simply cannot sit still for. Guidance and understanding are necessary when dealing with a person with ADHD; this is needed from teachers, family and friends. Treatment will most often involve a combination of behavior modification and medication. While the condition was considered to be controversial for many years, most healthcare providers are now accepting Attention Deficit Hyperactivity as a real disorder to be diagnosed and treated. A word of caution…you now have the ADHD definition, but always remember that all children exhibit these characteristics at one time or another. It is when they become so prevalent that they affect functionality and disrupt the home and the classroom that you need to bring it to the attention of your family physician. For more information about ADHD definition, plus lots of material on this condition, visit V K Rajagopalan's site: www.adhd-treatment-info.com
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