ADHD in Children
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting both children and adults. ADHD in children is described as a persistent or on-going pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that gets in the way of daily life or typical development. Children with ADHD may also have difficulties with maintaining attention, executive function (or the brain's ability to begin an activity, organise itself and manage tasks), and working memory.
ADHD symptoms in kids often overlap with symptoms of other mental and physical health conditions. When a parent reports, "He can't focus," or "She can't finish her homework," is the underlying cause ADHD, anxiety, a reading problem, or within developmental norms? To assess ADHD and develop treatment plans, clinicians evaluate specific symptom areas and try to determine how long the symptoms have been present and how much impairment they cause.
How a wide-ranging process delivers a more reliable ADHD diagnosis
Current media noise about attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children has prompted thousands of parents across the Asia Pacific to seek a formal diagnosis. But confirmation bias can be a dangerous thing. Clinicians should seek a broader understanding of each child, using standardised neurodevelopmental assessments and qualitative observations, before reaching any conclusions.
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