Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is characterized by three core symptoms—inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity which interfere with daily functioning in at least two settings. Approximately 10% of children ages 4-17 years old have been diagnosed with ADHD. Although it is commonly diagnosed in elementary school children, it can be diagnosed in teens and adults. A diagnosis can be made by a physician—like a pediatrician or psychiatrist, or by a clinical psychologist.
Hyperactive Symptoms may include:
Fidgeting
Difficulty sitting still
Appearing driven like a motor (ie. running around at inappropriate times)
Unable to play quietly
Having trouble waiting his/her turns
Interrupting others or blurts out answers
Impulsivity may symptoms include:
Tendency to speak or act on a whim
Blurting out an answer before raising his/her hand
Leaping off the jungle gym without considering how or where he’ll land
Reacting to frustration or embarrassment with a punch or scream
Inattentive symptoms may include:
Making careless errors
Not appearing to listen
Disliking or avoiding tasks that require concentration
Frequently losing or misplacing items
Disorganization
Easily distracted
Poor attention to detail
Your child may show a combination of both hyperactive/impulsivity and inattentive ADHD behaviors.
Adults with ADHD symptoms present differently than children. For example, an adult with ADHD may have chronic difficulty with keeping organized or keeping up with work deadlines, struggle with showing up on time, and may have difficulty with interpersonal relationships. If the symptoms are interfering with an individual’s success at school/ work or disrupting family/personal life, you may want to consider a formal evaluation.
Neuropsychological testing is a formalized interview and set of tests. The questionnaires and tests are a standardized way of evaluating intelligence, aptitude, executive functioning, and mood, and typically last 3-6 hours depending on what questions are being addressed. Neuropsychological testing is not required to make the diagnosis of ADHD but can help clarify whether there are other underlying problems like a learning disorder or anxiety that may be contributing to the individual’s difficulties. Having a report from a neuropsychologist may make it easier to obtain accommodations for standardized entry exams or certain school systems, but this type of detailed assessment is not required.
Dr. Mann is trained in the evaluation and treatment of ADHD for people of all ages. In young children, it is recommended to start with an evidence-based behavioral intervention like Parent Management Training (PMT) or Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT). Other interventions for children may include working with the school to develop a 504 plan or IEP that would allow accommodations—adjustments to the child’s learning environment to support his/her learning. Dr. Mann also works closely with parents in PCIT or more broadly to support daily functioning through behavioral plans and parenting approaches. After implementing behavioral interventions, Dr. Mann can help families and individuals decide whether to start and which medication to begin with.
