Girls with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

By DiverseMinds Research Team

Reading time 3 minutes ⏰

A mental health illness known as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is characterised by inattentive, hyperactive, or impulsive behaviour patterns. These symptoms can cause problems at home, at school, and in other aspects of life.

Many misconceptions portray ADHD as a disorder that mostly affects guys.

This stereotype appears to be supported by evidence: Boys are more than twice as likely to be diagnosed with ADHD in childhood, according to a 2018 studyTrusted Source. However, according to an older 2014 studyTrusted Source, the disparity narrows slightly among people diagnosed with ADHD.

While it is true that males have a larger likelihood of being diagnosed with ADHD, this does not mean they are more likely to have the disorder.

We believe that physicians at Trusted Source commonly miss ADHD in girls for a few reasons:

• Internalized (and less visible) symptoms are more common among them.

• They're more prone to employ coping mechanisms that assist them conceal their symptoms.

• Girls are less likely to be referred for diagnosis and treatment by their parents and instructors.

• Girls who do not receive the proper diagnosis are less likely to receive the appropriate support. As a result, the difficulties kids face at home and at school often remain into adulthood, having a significant influence on their career, social connections, and general quality of life.