Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Although the behavioral characteristics of hyperactivity are very similar to naughty, the causes are different.

It is difficult for a teacher to assess a student as having hyperactivity disorder based solely on observational information. A comprehensive assessment by a specialist is required before the determination can be made. Many times, teachers may find that the student with hyperactivity problems is not the naughtiest one in the class.

Hong Kong hyperactivity disorder schoolchildren

According to statistics, among 100 children in Hong Kong, about 4 to 5 have hyperactivity disorder/attention deficit disorder. Most of them are boys.

Causes of hyperactivity disorder

As for the causes of hyperactivity disorder, it was misunderstood in the early days that it was caused by poor parental discipline, family problems or certain foods. Some parents also feel guilty about this. Now, decades of medical and scientific research have accumulated, and there is evidence that hyperactivity disorder is based on physiological factors, related to genetics and brain function, and is not caused by parenting methods, parental relationships or family environment. However, if the parents of children with hyperactivity disorder do not know how to discipline their children, coupled with other family pressures, the problem of hyperactivity disorder will become more serious. Therefore, in programs to help children with hyperactivity disorder, these family factors must also be addressed.

Medical research has confirmed that hyperactivity is genetically related, and a new generation of genetic tests can help doctors and parents understand their children's condition better.

Symptoms of hyperactivity disorder, do these behavioral characteristics disappear with age?

Some parents have begun to notice some behavioral characteristics of hyperactivity disorder in their children in early childhood (about three years old), and they become more obvious after entering elementary school. The age at which hyperactivity problems begin is generally around six or seven years old. As we age, some hyperactive behavioral traits become more controlled and less obvious, but research shows that they do not disappear with age.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms

Attention deficit symptoms

Often described as cognitive sluggishness, daydreaming or "mind wandering".
Cognition and learning issues.
Carelessness
Trouble concentrating during play, study, or family activities
Even if he is reminded directly, he seems unable to listen
Inability to stay on task (e.g., homework, chores, etc.)
Difficulty organizing tasks, activities and items
Avoid tasks that require sustained mental effort
Lost items needed to complete a task or activity (e.g., textbooks, sports equipment, etc.)
Easily distracted
Forgetting daily activities (e.g. homework, chores, morning routine, etc.)

Hyperactivity Disorder Symptoms

Excessive restlessness (e.g., clapping hands or stamping feet, squirming in seat)
Difficulty maintaining a sitting position when required (e.g., at school, work, etc.)
Young people feel restless, or young children show inappropriate running or climbing behavior
Difficulty playing quietly
Difficulty keeping up, always seems to be “on the go”
Talk too much
Having trouble waiting for your turn
Answering questions too quickly
Interrupting or interfering with others

Impaired functioning – To meet diagnostic criteria, functioning in academic, social, or occupational activities must be impaired.

Finally, parents should just remember that love and patience are always the best medicine, and making children feel that their parents’ guidance and encouragement are the basis for successful treatment.