You have probably heard a lot about ADD, but perhaps you have more questions as to what exactly the disorder entails and its common symptoms.

Characteristic Behaviors

The three main behaviors of ADD can be described as distractibility, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Children and adults suffering from ADD often give little attention to tasks, have little concept of restraint, and take on physical activity in excess. They may be restless or anxious.

Common symptoms of ADD include inability to focus on a task at hand, making careless mistakes, and difficulty maintaining certain tasks. Other physical symptoms include fidgeting, excessive running, and squirming. However, research shows these physical characteristics do not manifest themselves in every case. According to this research, about one-third of those with the disorder do not manifest this hyperactive behavior.

Symptoms of ADD have been recognized in afflicted adults and children throughout years of scientific studies. In fact, ADD is recognized in the United States as a disability. ADD is not the result of bad parenting and lack of discipline. Children with ADD in particular have been stigmatized throughout the years for being unruly or undisciplined when the root cause of their behavior –ADD—was ignored.

Who Has ADD?

According to a national survey, over seven percent of children ages six to 11 have been diagnosed with ADD. Additionally, over 1.6 elementary school-aged children are afflicted with this frustrating disorder.

Many adults diagnosed with ADD have been experiencing symptoms since an early age. These adults were untreated during childhood –when the disorder is usually diagnosed today—and have been suffering from distractibility and lack of being able to focus since their youth. If left untreated, these adults could begin suffering from other problems related to ADD such as impaired social interaction.

Many adults are diagnosed with ADD when their children are examined for the disorder, because scientists believe the disorder may run in the family. Consult your doctor if you have been experiencing similar symptoms or have concerns. You could have ADD, or there could be another reason for your symptoms such as social anxiety or depression.