Why Does My Child Show Hyperactive And Impulsive Behaviors?

Does your child have difficulties in paying close attention to details or make thoughtless mistakes in homework, at work, or during other activities?

Does he frequently have a hard time sustaining attention in (play) activities (e.g., difficulty keeping focus during classes or conversations)?

Does it happen frequently that your child doesn’t listen when someone speaks directly to you?

Does your child have difficulties following through on instructions and does he/she usually fail to finish schoolwork or other tasks?

Does your child most of the time have difficulties organizing chores, tasks or activities?

Does he/she most of the time refuse to do tasks in which mental effort is necessary or dislike such tasks?

Does he/she often lose materials that are essential for tasks or activities?

Is he/she often easily distracted by irrelevant stimuli?

Is he/she frequently inattentive, forgetful during daily activities?

Does he/she often tap with your hands or feet or make restless movements?

Does he/she often leave his/her seat in circumstances that require remaining in place?

Does he/she frequently run or climb in situations where it is inappropriate?

Does he/she often have difficulties to play or take part in leisure activities quietly?

Does he/she frequently talk excessively?

Does he/she frequently answer before a question has been completed?

Does he/she have a hard time waiting for his/her turn?

Does he/she frequently interrupt other people?

Were some inattentive (questions 1 - 9) or hyperactive-impulsive (questions 10 - 18) symptoms present before he/she was 12 years old?

Are some inattentive or hyperactive-impulsive symptoms present in two or more contexts?

Is it clear that the symptoms interfere with your social, academic or work life?

Based on your answers, your child may be displaying just one or two signs related to hyperactive and/or impulsive behaviors. There is no need to worry. Many of the questions include typical childhood behaviors, so it can be hard sometimes to know what is normal and what is not. There are three main signs in kids over age 3 that may point to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity. However, these behaviors can also occur in children without the disorder. A disorder will not be made unless symptoms continue for at least 6 months and have a negative impact on age-appropriate activities. It may be useful to check the symptoms with your doctor.

Based on your answers, your child may be displaying various symptoms related to hyperactive and impulsive behaviors. Most toddlers will show the following symptoms at various times, that are also related to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): lack of focus, impulsivity and excessive energy. ADHD is often mistaken for other issues, such as disciplinary problems. It may be important to discuss the symptoms that your child is showing with a mental health professional. Only then a right diagnosis can be made and a solution for your child’s problem can be found. It is important to not wait and act immediately to prevent the situation from worsening.

Unfortunately, your child is displaying symptoms typically seen among kids that have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). To be diagnosed with ADHD, your child must have experienced symptoms for at least 6 months. If this is the case, a doctor appointment may be required to discuss treatment options. ADHD is often mistaken for other problems, therefore it is very important to ask help from a mental health professional. When left untreated, ADHD can have a serious impact on your life. It can affect relationships, school performance and work. Treatment is important to control the symptoms. Remember that many people with ADHD manage to have successful and happy lives.