But someone who has ADD is not hyperactive. In fact, in very bright children, the absence of hyperactivity may result in the problem not being identified until middle school or even later. Yes, many children exhibit these behaviors some of the time or may even exhibit a few of these behaviors regularly. This is also true of adults. Males have a greater frequency of hyperactivity, but the difference is not as great as once thought.
Inattention appears to be more evenly distributed between males and females.
ADHD is primarily genetic and it is quite common to discover that a parent or other relative has the disorder. Approximately two-thirds of the children with ADHD will continue to have symptoms throughout their life span. ADHD is a worldwide disorder. Diagnosis is based on a very detailed history and current observations by self and others in different settings. Standardized behavioral checklists and computerized tests are frequently used to assist in the diagnosis.