Recognizing the Inattentive Subtype of ADHD in Boys
NASET ADHD SERIES
Kristin Wilcox, PhD.
This issue of NASET’s ADHD series was written by Kristin Wilcox, Ph.D. Initially, ADHD was defined based on observations of hyperactive behavior in boys. Unfortunately, the perception of a child with ADHD - boys who are hyperactive, impulsive, fidgeting, blurting out answers in the classroom, and constantly talking - has changed little over the past several decades. Results from large population-based studies suggest the inattentive subtype of ADHD may be the most prevalent type, however, it continues to be underdiagnosed. Children with the inattentive subtype of ADHD fly under the radar at school and at home with symptoms of inattention, forgetfulness, and disorganization which are difficult to identify correctly as ADHD and can often be confused with other behavioral problems. Teacher and parent education is key to learning how to work with our children’s ADHD brains and will aid in earlier diagnosis of the inattentive subtype.