Question
A child shows extremely active behavior and is suspected of having attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. What are the criteria for diagnosing pediatric ADHD?
Answer
The characteristics of pediatric ADHD primarily manifest as difficulty in maintaining focus or short periods of concentration. When engaged in tasks or listening to teachers’ explanations, children often struggle to stay focused or are easily distracted by external stimuli, and their attention span is not long-lasting. They tend to have more fidgeting movements, unable to sit quietly in their seats, and may even run around the classroom, affecting other students’ learning. Additionally, they find it hard to participate in quiet activities or games, which may impact academic performance. The criteria for diagnosing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder include the use of assessment scales. Parents can bring their child to a hospital for assessment to determine if they meet the criteria for ADHD. If they do, interventions can be initiated, including oral medications or other treatment methods.