The terms used to identify these children have changed as knowledge of the.disorder has increased. Today, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is used to recognize the important relationship between attending skills and the ability to learn. ADHD is the term used when the primary characteristic is significant inattentiveness and impulsivity with or without hyperactivity. The child often fails to finish projects, seems not to listen, is easily distracted, and has difficulty concentrating even on a chosen task. The child acts before thinking, switches from activity to activity, needs a lot of supervision, and has difficulty with organization of time, work, and belongings.
Hyperactivity often occurs with inattentiveness and impulsivity.
The child has difficulty sitting still, fidgets excessively, has difficulty staying seated, and moves about excessively even during sleep. Onset occurs before the age of 7 years. ADHD is present in children with average ability and in those who are gifted. It affects boys and girls, but is more prevalent in boys. Most often, these children appear restless and fidgety, but some children appear lethargic, shy, and withdrawn.