According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), up to 5 percent of American teens are ADHD diagnosable, with this being the most common mental health disorder affecting youth. According to Teenhelp.com, ADHD often accompanies behavioral problems, juvenile delinquency and substance abuse. This information proves significant recognizing symptoms so that teens can get the appropriate support needed to prevent the unfortunate consequences that come from negative behavior. The statistics reported by NIMH show that up to fifty percent of teens with symptoms of ADHD go undiagnosed, which further affects the individual and society as a whole.
Inattentive Type
The Mayo Clinic indicates that symptoms of ADHD can be classed in three categories. Inattentive type signifies an inability of the teen in keeping focused on any particular thought. A teen with inattentive symptoms might seem careless in school work and activities, often appearing bored with tasks. Becoming distracted easily by stimulating sensory information such as sounds or sights also proves characteristic of inattention. Teens may appear defiant as if they are not listening when spoken to or appearing to refuse to follow through with instructions. It is common with inattention for a teen to lose important objects or tools for school as well as losing objects for enjoyed activities. The NIMH indicates the inattentive symptoms can also lead teens to feeling increased bouts of depression or anxiety, which may further influence social withdrawal and feeling as if he does not belong.
Hyperactive and Impulsive Type
Hyperactive and impulsive behavior provide another characteristic of ADHD teens. The Mayo Clinic reports that this can appear to others’ as intrusive or rude behavior. A teen with this group of symptoms might have difficulty sitting still and in the classroom might leave her seat despite the consequences. Hyperactive and impulsive symptoms may also appear as restlessness, excessive energy and talkativeness. When the teen becomes stressed these types of symptoms often magnify, which leads to further disorganization of thought and task follow through. This group of symptoms may also lead a teen to engaging in destructive behaviors such as reckless driving and drug use. It becomes important to recognize these symptoms because early intervention can make the difference between a teen continuing his education or dropping out of school, feeling insignificant in the world, and living a life of irresponsibility. This group of symptoms is excessive compared to normal teen rebellion and when in doubt, professional consultation is recommended.
Combination Type
Combination symptoms are a conglomeration of both inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive type. It becomes important for parents to recognize that their child will only receive an ADHD diagnosis when symptoms have lasted for more than six months and when symptoms cause extreme disruptions in normal daily activity. The Mayo Clinic indicates that a combination symptoms in teens, may also increase the risk of delinquent behavior such as substance abuse, aggressive acts toward loved ones, and crime.
About this Author
Aureau Walding is a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Missouri. Walding has worked in the field for a decade and she utilizes a holistic and strengths-based approach. She has published articles on topics such as anxiety, addiction, and social change for LIVESTRONG and Examiner.com.
