While most children are active, energetic, and inquisitive, a small but significant percentage demonstrate a persistent pattern of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity which causes distress and dysfunction. Most such children (more often boys, but girls are also affected) show symptoms as toddlers, although the condition is often exacerbated when a youngster begins attending school.

Besides having trouble paying attention (especially to unexciting tasks), children with ADHD often find it hard to complete tasks and, when doing so, often perform carelessly. They seem disorganized and often shift from one project to another without finishing tasks. Often, such children appear forgetful and easily distracted.

Although frequently ADHD children are seen as restless and fidgety, they do possess the capacity to sit still and attend to something of interest to them. Some youngsters also appear impatient and impulsive, and frequently cannot control their anger. This combination of traits often creates havoc and discord within a variety of environments, especially at home and school, where disruptive behaviors are most apparent.

ADHD often lasts into adulthood, causing difficulties at school, work and disrupting relationships. Fortunately a variety of approaches to ADHD have been investigated in recent years.

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