Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: Symptoms, Complaints, Signs

The following symptoms and complaints may indicate attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD):

Leading symptoms

Inattention manifests in children with the following symptoms:

  • Failure to pay attention to schoolwork/other assignments.
  • Inability to maintain attention during assignments/playing games
  • Do not listen to what they are told
  • Can not fulfill their school obligations
  • Can not organize tasks
  • Avoid tasks that require perseverance
  • Are forgetful in the course of everyday activities

Hyperactivity/hyperactivity (motor restlessness) manifests with the following symptoms:

  • Can not sit quietly in the chair
  • Get up suddenly and leave their seat
  • Run around or climb
  • Are very loud when playing

Impulsiveness manifests itself as follows:

  • Falling into the word of others
  • Can’t wait their turn in line
  • Interrupt others
  • Talk excessively

The above symptoms must be present for at least six months and they should be fulfilled in more than one situation (so, for example, at home and at school) to make the diagnosis of ADHD. Note: According to the S3 guideline, the diagnosis of ADHD should not be made before the age of three years. Even in children aged 3 to 4 years, the diagnosis usually cannot be adequately ensured.

Further notes

  • In girls and women, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is also called a “hidden disorder.” The following are special features of girls with ADHD:
    • As a sign of hyperactivity: increased speech fluency and affective lability/dysregulation; motor agitation tends to be less common
    • Conceal their deficits or compensate for them in order to appear normal
  • For adult symptoms and complaints, see Classification: the Utah criteria were developed specifically for ADHD patients in adulthood.