Explain ADHD psychologically?

attention deficit hyperactive disorder

Attention deficit disorder (ADD) is a biologically based disorder, which involves a pattern of decreased attention span interspersed with periods of hyperactivity and impulsivity. Both ADD and ADHD are similar conditions and are often difficult to distinguish in children. Children with ADD have a very short attention span, while those with ADHD are hyperactive and may not be able to sit in one place for long. Some children might naturally be more active than others but this does not amount to ADD.

There are three subcategories of ADD:

predominantly inattentive

predominantly hyperactive

combined type

The disorder is more common in males and is mostly observed in children. Though traits can be carried over to adulthood, the disease is eminently treatable in childhood, and the symptoms can be easily brought under control.

Children with ADHD usually grow up to be useful citizens of the society. If the disorder is diagnosed and treated early, these children adapt themselves to the ways of the society and may have no problems in adjusting to the normal routine. Though the treatment measures used may cause some stunting of growth in children, most children catch up later on. The prognosis for children with ADHD is usually good.

The exact cause of the disorder is not known. However, there may be certain risk factors that predispose a child to the disorder. Exposure to toxins before birth and premature birth are two such factors. Children with ADD usually have a family history of discord, bad performance in school and other related behavioural disorders. ADHD is also more common in children who have a close relative with the disorder. Sometimes, injury to the central nervous system may also lead to the condition.