ADHD is a broader category than just using the term hyperactivity. One of the myths about ADHD is that it represents a milder and much more broad condition, and it is probably not severe unless hyperactivity is present. Understanding of ADHD is also complicated by the deeply rooted but simplistic societal opinion that parents are to blame and that poor parenting is the cause of all children s problem behaviour. The problems frequently get worse, especially at puberty when the complications of excessive oppositionality, conduct disorder and associated antisocial activity, may occur. The teenage years can be particularly difficult for adolescents with ADHD and in many cases the problems persist into adulthood.
Some children do outgrow their problems, but by no means most.
Many children who have been expelled or are in schools for children with emotional and behavioural difficulties have multiple co-existing problems. These co-existing conditions may appear to family or professionals to be the main problem, and the underlying ADHD may go unrecognised. Inattentive ADHD is more frequently associated with depression, anxiety and learning difficulties. There is frequently also low self-esteem, social skills problems, relationship difficulties and organisation problems. Children with ADHD may present very differently depending on the extent of their core symptoms, and which and how many complications are present.