Synonyms in a broader sense
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Fidgeting Filip Syndrome, Fidgeting Filip, Psychoorganic Syndrome (POS), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Definition
Attention deficit hyperactivity syndrome comprises a distinctly inattentive, impulsive behaviour that manifests itself over a longer period of time in several areas of life (kindergarten/school, at home, leisure time). ADHD can also occur without hyperactivity in the form of ADHD or as a mixed form. Both ADHD and ADHD are clearly defined clinical pictures, which are characterized by different symptoms of ADHD or ADD.
Persons with ADHD or ADHD cannot focus their attention and therefore show deficiencies in their ability to concentrate. This lack of concentration usually permeates all areas of life of children and adults, i.e. kindergarten, school or work as well as the family and leisure time. The lack of concentration becomes particularly apparent in phases in which those affected have to direct their attention to a certain area over a longer period of time.
While in the case of ADHD dreaming then predominates, the hyperactive form can have negative side effects in the form of fidgeting and even offensive refusal to work. Due to the variable and at times below-average ability to build up attention, children in particular are confronted with problems at school. Many ADHD children develop dyslexia and/or dyscalculia.
In both forms of ADHD, an incorrect transmission and processing of information between the two brain sections (brain hemispheres) is evident. This in turn does not mean that ADHD sufferers are less gifted. The opposite is the case: people with ADHD cannot be excluded from a possible high giftedness. The probability of the presence of high giftedness should be comparable to the probability that a “normal child or adult” is likely to have it. Due to the symptoms of the syndrome, especially ADHD, a diagnosis of giftedness is often much more difficult.
What can be signs of ADHD?
The first signs of ADHD can appear in all situations that require a certain amount of concentration. In everyday life, ADHD manifests itself in a pronounced distractibility, forgetfulness and unreliability. Tasks are interrupted, instructions are poorly followed.
Those affected react impulsively and inconsiderately. The mood changes often and they can be easily irritable, sometimes even aggressive. Children usually have problems at school, adults at work.
There is also aggravated social behaviour and appropriate behaviour in a social context. Hyperactive forms of ADHD are conspicuous by increased activity with a strong urge to move – hyperactive children are fidgety and disrupt lessons. In the non-hyperactive, possibly hypoactive (i.e. underactive) form, sufferers tend to be quiet and dreamy; here the children seem to live in a dream world. But a flourishing imagination and a pronounced emotionality are also typical for ADHD.
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