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ADHD Gender Differences
The imbalance between ADHD diagnoses among boys and girls may be because girls are not “squeaky wheels.” They may be less disruptive. One study published in a national journal showed that girls with ADHD are twice as likely as boys with ADHD to be diagnosed with inattentive-type ADHD. Instead of running around the room or distracting other students, those with this type of ADHD may seem as if they are daydreaming or not listening. Because this symptom is not easily recognized, it can make recognition of ADHD in girls more difficult. They may drift from one grade to the next without performing up to their potential.
Does My Daughter Have ADHD?
Take a closer look at the symptoms of ADHD.
The symptoms are the same for both girls and boys, but the way girls behave may be different. Watch for clues in your daughter’s behavior. One study shows that the majority of all children with ADHD have the “combined” type—both inattentive and hyperactive.
ADHD and Girls—Symptoms
One study surveyed 550 teachers and 346 children with ADHD to find out how they describe the disorder. The answers give clues about recognizing ADHD in girls.
Clue #1: Out-of-Control Talking. Most of the girls with ADHD perceived that they were inappropriately talkative.
Clue #2: Social Isolation. Girls reported that they sometimes felt left out of activities with other children.
Clue #3: Inattention. Teachers listed paying “attention in class” as a common problem seen in girls with ADHD.
Early intervention is important and may help individuals with ADHD, including girls, feel better prepared for adulthood. A survey led by Dr Joseph Biederman, professor of psychiatry at Harvard University, reported that those diagnosed with ADHD as children, when compared with those diagnosed as adults, were more likely to feel that their childhood prepared them for adult life. Because there may be barriers to recognizing ADHD in girls and because the potential consequences of ADHD may be serious, it is important that parents remain vigilant in observing their child's behavior.
ADHD is not only limited to boys and girls. It’s more than a childhood disorder. Learn about ADHD symptoms in adults.
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