What is the difference between the behavior of a child with ADHD and a child without this condition?

As caregivers, parents, teachers or family members, we can be attentive to possible changes in the behavior of a close child and, according to the instructions provided by an expert here, seek professional help, if necessary.

Using phrases like “this child is very hyperactive” when a child has energy has become very common; In fact, assuming that children may have attention deficit and/or hyperactivity has become commonplace.

Many parents assume that when their child has some behavioral problems at home or at school it is because he or she has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

However, this is not necessarily the case, and making such generalizations is not convenient, since It can end up causing problems in children who only need an adjustment in their parenting patterns or lead to situations being overlooked in which a disorder may exist.. For this reason, in this article we are going to talk a little more about the signs that tell us if a child can really have this condition, differentiating them from behaviors that may be normal in children.

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We must begin by pointing out that, although many children with ADHD are very energetic, the criterion of excess energy alone is not enough to make a diagnosis. In fact, It is possible to find ways in which the disorder manifests itself and the children who experience it have very low energy, which is combined with lack of attention and other symptoms.

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In general, there are some signs that can be indicators that ADHD exists. Below we present some that are fundamental.

Difficulties in information processing

Children with ADHD have a much harder time processing information, that is, grasping and learning new things, so they can present academic performance problems.

Problems with emotional regulation

Sometimes difficulties in understanding and processing information can cause them to become easily frustrated, which in turn leads to strong emotional responses that they have difficulty regulating, such as tantrums. These symptoms can interfere with social relationships, leading to a feeling of isolation and a decrease in self-esteem.

executive function

Children with ADHD often have problems with executive function, with tasks such as organization, planning, prioritization, attention and remembering details.

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Adjustment for development

Children with ADHD also tend to appear a little behind in their development when compared to other children of the same age. Thus, an 11-year-old child with ADHD may think and behave more like a toddler than a preteen. This means that Even as teenagers, children with ADHD may lack the judgment they need to make certain decisions related to their social life, which are risky and potentially harmful.

Let us also remember that the disorder, according to diagnostic manuals, has three ways of manifesting itself:

  • Attention deficit: the diagnosis formerly known as ADD. A child with inattentive ADHD is easily distracted or shows symptoms of inattention, but He is not hyperactive or impulsive.
  • Hyperactivity: In this case, a child’s symptoms are hyperactive and impulsive behavior, but His attention span is typical..
  • Combined: a mix of the first two.
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Thus, each “version” of the disorder may present some specific signs:

A child may have inattentive ADHD if:

  1. He is easily distracted.
  2. He is generally forgetful.
  3. He has trouble paying attention to details in his schoolwork and other activities.
  4. Regularly ignores an interlocutor, even when the interlocutor speaks directly to him.
  5. Avoid tasks that require prolonged mental effort.

A child may have ADHD with hyperactivity if:

  1. He talks excessively.
  2. He has extreme difficulty waiting his turn.
  3. Is physically active (runs, climbs, etc.) in inappropriate situations.
  4. He is unable to play calmly or relax.

And finally, if you show a combination of these symptoms, you may have mixed ADHD.

The important thing here is to know that It’s okay for children to be energetic and it’s normal for them to not be able to stay focused for the same amount of time as adults.. If you have any questions, it is important that you consult with a professional before assuming anything about a possible diagnosis.

Really, what we must pay attention to and what makes the difference between the normal behavior of a child and the behavior of a child with ADHD is that Their behaviors significantly interfere with their performance at school, extra activities and/or their interpersonal relationships.

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