Publisher's Synopsis
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects approximately 6 million children in the United States alone. Traditionally, ADHD has been associated with boys. However, recent studies have shown that girls are equally likely to be affected by ADHD. Despite this, ADHD in girls is often missed or misdiagnosed. In this article, we explore the reasons behind this phenomenon.
First, it is important to understand that ADHD presents differently in girls than it does in boys. Boys with ADHD are more likely to be hyperactive and impulsive, which often leads to disruptive behavior in the classroom. Girls, on the other hand, are more likely to be inattentive and daydreamy, which often goes unnoticed. Teachers and parents may mistakenly attribute these behaviors to shyness or a lack of motivation, rather than an underlying neurodevelopmental disorder. Moreover, girls with ADHD are more likely to internalize their symptoms, leading to anxiety and depression. As a result, their struggles with ADHD may be overlooked and their emotional distress may be attributed to other factors. Girls with ADHD may be perceived as quiet, well-behaved, and compliant, making it easy to overlook their symptoms.
