Attention Deficit Disorder Without Hyperactivity in Children

Attention deficit disorder can be present with or without the hyperactivity component in children. The absence of hyperactivity is referred to as the inattentive form of the disorder. Children with attention deficit disorder in the inattentive form may still have some characteristics of the hyperactivity and impulsivity of the hyperactive form but are primarily affected with inattentive symptoms, such as difficulty following tasks to completion, seemingly poor listening skills, and being easily distracted.

Causes

• Attention deficit disorder is a condition rooted in the brain. There is still much unknown about the causes of attention deficit disorder without hyperactivity, however some activities undertaken by pregnant women have been linked with higher incidence of the disorder in their children. Prenatal exposure to drugs and smoking increase the risk of attention deficit disorder. Prenatal and early childhood exposure to some chemicals may also increase the risk. However, these risk factors do not tell the whole story as many women who do all the right things during their pregnancies still go on to have children with attention deficit disorder. More research is being conducted on possible genetic and hereditary components of the condition.

Symptoms

• The symptoms of attention deficit disorder without hyperactivity in children are slightly different from those of the hyperactive form. Children with inattentive attention deficit disorder may actually seem lethargic and generally unengaged at times. Other symptoms include a dislike or avoidance of tasks that require sustained attention as with school work, appearing to not be listening even when being spoken to directly, difficulty organizing their tasks or play, being easily distracted and forgetful, and easily losing personal possessions.

Diagnosis

• There is no definitive way to diagnose attention deficit disorder without hyperactivity in children as it does not show up in blood test or genetic screening. Instead, a diagnosis is made based on the sustained presence of the inattentive attention deficit disorder symptoms. A physician, psychologist, or psychiatrist are all able to make a diagnosis based on the child having six or more of the identified symptoms of attention deficit disorder without hyperactivity. A thorough physical may be ordered to rule out other medical conditions that may be causing some or all of the symptoms before a diagnosis is made.

Treatment

• Treatment of attention deficit disorder without hyperactivity in children is varied based on the preference of the parent. Most children are treated with a combination of prescription medications and behavior modification therapy. Medications are used to improve the chemical functioning of the brain while the behavioral therapy teaches the child coping mechanisms so they will have strategies to better manage their attention deficit disorder at school, home, and in many other settings and life situations.

Accommodations

• Children who have attention deficit disorder without hyperactivity many need special accommodations to be successful in a school setting. These accommodations could include having more time to complete in-class tests and assignments, being able to go to a low-stimulus setting that will lessen distractions during tests, and using a computer to take notes rather than having to write by hand. Maintain open communication with your child's teachers so that you will be able to keep abreast of your child's progress and be able to work with teachers to implement accommodations as the need arises.