Individuals with ADHD experience many difficulties in all facets of their lives. Briefly describe the academic and behavior characteristics of individuals with ADHD and how these characteristics can negatively affect their daily functioning.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

ADHD is not related to intellectual ability, so the academic characteristics of students with ADHD vary tremendously. Many students with ADHD can be successful in school, particularly if effective interventions are put in place; however, most students with ADHD have trouble with the academic structure and demands of school, and they consistently achieve below their potential. The frequency and severity of behavior problems for students with ADHD also vary widely. Students who have the hyperactive-impulsive or combined type of ADHD usually have behavior problems that are immediately apparent to their teachers and other school personnel. Those who have inattentive ADHD may not have many outward behavior symptoms of their disorder, but they may be disruptive in the classroom when they try to find their misplaced materials or need ongoing teacher assistance to stay focused on their work. Teachers have reported feeling significantly less confident about teaching students with ADHD, particularly those with behavior problems, compared to teaching other students, which clearly has implications for these students' academic outcomes.