March 10, 2023:
How We So Often Overlook Kids with ADHD
Why do we miss it so often?
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a person’s ability to pay attention, control impulsive behavior, and regulate activity levels. There are three subtypes of ADHD: predominantly inattentive type, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type, and combined type. However, ADHD inattentive type can often go unnoticed, especially in school-aged children, and even more so in girls.
ADHD inattentive type is characterized by symptoms such as difficulty sustaining attention, forgetfulness, disorganization, and being easily distracted. These symptoms can lead to problems with academic performance, social relationships, and self-esteem. However, because children with ADHD inattentive type are not disruptive or hyperactive, their symptoms may be overlooked or mistaken for laziness or lack of effort.
One of the main reasons why ADHD inattentive type is frequently missed in school-aged children is because the symptoms are not as visible as those of the hyperactive-impulsive subtype. Teachers may not notice a child’s inattention or forgetfulness because the child is not causing disruptions in the classroom. Think about it, how well would you be able to notice a child, who might be sitting in the back of a crowded classroom, struggling to focus? Your attention would more likely be drawn to those kiddos who are talking when they’re not supposed to, being disruptive, squirming in their seat, or poking the kids next to them. As a result, children with ADHD inattentive type may go undiagnosed and untreated, leading to continued academic, social, and emotional difficulties.
Furthermore, girls with ADHD inattentive type often go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed because their symptoms may not be as noticeable as those of boys with the hyperactive-impulsive subtype. They may be quiet and well-behaved in class, but struggle to pay attention, stay organized, and complete tasks. Because of this, their difficulties may be attributed to laziness, lack of effort, or emotional issues, rather than a neurological condition.
Girls with ADHD inattentive type may also exhibit symptoms that are more commonly associated with other conditions such as anxiety or depression, making it more difficult to diagnose. For example, a girl who is struggling with anxiety may appear to be daydreaming or not paying attention, when in reality, she is preoccupied with worry or fear.
It is important for parents and teachers to be aware of the signs of ADHD inattentive type in girls, including difficulty completing tasks and homework, forgetfulness and losing things, and low self-esteem. If a girl is exhibiting these symptoms, it is important to consider the possibility of ADHD inattentive type and seek a comprehensive evaluation from a well-trained mental health professional with expertise in spotting the differences between ADHD and other common childhood challenges, such as anxiety, depression, and learning disabilities.
ADHD inattentive type can have a significant impact on a child’s ability to learn and perform in school. Children with this condition may struggle to pay attention in class, which can lead to missed information and difficulty completing assignments. They may also have a hard time organizing their thoughts and materials, which can make studying and completing homework challenging.
In addition, children with ADHD inattentive type may have difficulty following instructions, particularly those that involve multiple steps. This can lead to frustration and confusion and may cause the child to miss important details or make careless mistakes.
Over time, these difficulties can have a negative impact on a child’s academic performance and self-esteem. Children with ADHD inattentive type may feel like they are not as smart or capable as their peers, even though they are just as intelligent and talented. This can lead to feelings of frustration, anxiety, and low self-worth.
What do we do?
It’s important for parents, teachers, and mental health professionals to work together to support children with ADHD inattentive type and help them overcome their challenges. With appropriate accommodations and strategies, children with ADHD inattentive type can thrive in school and achieve their full potential. Some examples of accommodations may include extra time on tests, preferential seating, and breaking down assignments into smaller, more manageable tasks. By understanding the unique needs of children with ADHD inattentive type and providing the support they need to succeed, we can help ensure that they have the best possible chance for a bright future.
While receiving a diagnosis of ADHD inattentive type can be daunting for both the child and their parents, it can also be incredibly empowering. A diagnosis can help explain the difficulties a child may have been experiencing and provide a framework for understanding and managing those challenges.
With the right treatment and support, children with ADHD inattentive type can learn to manage their symptoms and achieve success in school and beyond. Treatment may include medication, behavioral therapy, or a combination of both. Additionally, accommodations and strategies can be put in place to help the child navigate their academic and social environments.
Studies have shown that with appropriate treatment, children with ADHD inattentive type can experience significant improvements in their academic performance, social relationships, and overall quality of life. They can develop a greater sense of self-awareness and self-esteem, as well as improved emotional regulation and executive functioning skills.
Receiving a diagnosis of ADHD inattentive type does not define a child, but rather provides a starting point for understanding and addressing their unique needs. With the right support and resources, children with ADHD inattentive type can overcome their challenges and thrive in all areas of life.
—Dr. David Butman, Psy.D. is a licensed clinical psychologist and founder of Keystone Psychological Testing & Consulting, a private assessment practice in Doylestown, PA. He specializes in the assessment of ADHD, learning difficulties, emotional and behavioral challenges, executive functioning, attention, and giftedness.
