The picture of ADHD changes with age. Initially, symptoms of hyperactivity/impulsivity predominate. As the child undertakes more learning tasks, symptoms of attention deficit disorder become more prominent. Symptoms are observed at different stages of development, such as:
- in the pre-school period: children with ADHD are constantly on the move (“they are everywhere”). They climb, create dangerous situations and do not respect instructions. They interact with peers by pushing or hitting. They are also characterised by being loud, boisterous and conflictual (e.g. taking away toys);
- during school: affected pupils have difficulty staying seated during lessons, may stand up, walk around the classroom or talk to classmates. In addition, they focus attention for a short time, interrupt activities, do not write down the subject of the lesson and homework. They recklessly break the rules. During this time, the child may also develop problems with social functioning. These may manifest themselves, for example, in poorer relationships with peers or in getting into fights;
- during adolescence: people with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder have difficulties with reading long texts, guessing instructions in tests and making mistakes out of inattention. They are accompanied by feelings of restlessness. They recklessly engage in risky activities. They have problems with motivation to perform long-term activities. Complications of ADHD – addictions, depression, isolation from peers or antisocial behaviour – can also occur during this time.
Source / Bibilography
- https://www.damian.pl/zdrowie-psychiczne/adhd/
