Types of ADHD in Teens

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder actually comes in several types: the inattentive type, the hyperactive-impulsive type, and a combination of the two. At present, ADHD is diagnosed more than it has ever been in the history of the disorder. Males are actually more prone to diagnosis of ADHD than females. In the past, the types of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder were not defined. But now there are several types which your ADHD teen may fit into. When your teenager is just diagnosed with the disorder, it is important to identify what type of ADHD your teen falls under. After which, you should become better acquainted with not just the general disorder but the particular type your teenager falls under. This will definitely aid in how you guide your ADHD teen. If you notice ADHD symptoms in your teenager it wouldn’t hurt to bring him to a doctor because the disorder itself may exist in varying levels in an adolescent.

ADHD Inattentive Type
The inattentive type of ADHD may normally be referred to as simply Attention Deficit Disorder. Some describe these teenagers as daydreamers. It may take them a while to begin work and complete it. They may forget things or lose things easily and are prone to being distracted. Written or spoken language difficulties may also exist, such as problems with taking notes in class. Impulsive acts are also present.

Inattentive type symptoms:

·         lacks attention to detail or may have a tendency for error in academic work or personal activities

·         sustained attention difficulties concerning tasks or certain activities

·         obvious problems with listening

·         problems with instruction-following

·         difficulty with organization

·         he/she may avoid those tasks which require mental effort

·         tendency to lose things like school materials or personal objects

·         easily distracted

·         forgetfulness occurs in day-to-day activities

ADHD Hyperactive- Impulsive Type
ADHD teens who are classified as Hyperactive-Impulsive may normally cause disruption in school, as well as struggle with concentrating or listening. They may often interrupt while others are speaking or talk excessively.

Hyperactive-Impulsive type symptoms:

·         squirming or fidgeting

·         difficulty remaining in one position or area

·         excessive movement (climbing or running)

·         difficulty remaining silent

·         appears to be "on the go" at most times

·         excessive talking

·         answering or replying curtly before the whole question has been asked

·         problems with patience (for example, waiting in lines)

·         prone to interrupting or intruding

ADHD Combined Type: Inattentive and Hyperactive
Teens diagnosed with the combined type of ADHD may display the symptoms of both inattentive type ADHD and hyperactive-impulsive type ADHD.

Combined type symptoms:

·         combination of the symptoms of both prior types

·         known as the most common of all 3 types of ADHD

Seeking Professional Help and an Individual Consultation for your Teen

For further information, speak with a mental health professional for an individual consultation. Medication, behavior modification, or a combination of both methods of treatment may be recommended depending on your teen’s unique needs.