Attention Deficit Disorder Without Hyperactivity: A Growing Problem Among Children

Although attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is the most commonly talked about disorder in children today, attention deficit disorder without hyperactivity is just as much of a problem. ADHD is more easily diagnosed because the hyperactivity is easy to see. So it is important for parents to know what to look for to determine whether their child has Attention deficit disorder without hyperactivity.

Learning the Symptoms

Attention deficit disorder without hyperactivity doesn’t include a lot of acting out and constant running around in the classroom. The symptoms and signs are more subtle because they are more internal. When children have attention deficit disorder without hyperactivity, they look like they are bored in class. They often daydream and forget to turn in assignments. They typically have advanced verbal skills, but have trouble without patience.

Examples of how children with attention deficit disorder without hyperactivity have patience problems are as follows:

• Interrupting others without realizing it
• Finishing someone else’s sentences, instead of waiting to hear the end
• Rushing though homework assignments, making numerous careless mistakes
• Refusing to complete assignments
• Appearing like they are ignoring you

These problems are often overlooked, because parents see them as misbehavior, rather than uncontrollable problems. Many times children with attention deficit disorder without hyperactivity will have another disorder too. Sometimes the other disorder can overshadow the attention deficit disorder without hyperactivity. Examples of such disorders include learning disabilities (such as dyslexia and problems with numbers) and behavior disorders.

With attention deficit disorder without hyperactivity, a child can often succeed when not much attention is required. Focusing on these areas can help build the child’s self-esteem, making it easier for him/her to tackle assignments that require attention. Such areas include art, metal or wood shop, music, etc. Just because your child excels in one of those areas though, doesn’t mean that they have attention deficit disorder without hyperactivity. But if you do suspect it, be sure to have it verified by a doctor or counselor. The school can provide testing to be done, as a way to determine whether the child qualifies as attention deficit disorder without hyperactivity and whether extra assistance will be needed for school. Sometimes the doctor can diagnose a child, but the school won’t recognize the disorder if it doesn’t interfere with schoolwork.

Dealing with Attention Deficit Disorder without Hyperactivity

The following are great ways to help your child succeed despite the fact that he/she has attention deficit disorder without hyperactivity:

• Set a reasonable schedule for your child so they have consistency and predictability in their life.

• Talk to the teacher about “in the class” strategies that are used to help children with attention deficit disorder without hyperactivity.

• Help your child stay organized.

For more information on how to help your child and for information on medication that can be used to improve your child’s attention look online. There are many helpful sights designated to helping children with attention deficit disorder without hyperactivity.