Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can cause children to struggle with paying attention, staying still, or controlling impulses. Symptoms often persist into adulthood, sometimes appearing as restlessness rather than overt hyperactivity.
Diagnosing ADHD requires a careful process to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, or learning disabilities. Diagnosis usually depends on symptoms persisting over time and occurring in multiple settings, like home and school.
Treatment often combines medication and therapy to manage symptoms and establish supportive routines. Parents can also benefit from behavior management training to help their children.
Since ADHD can run in families, parents with ADHD may find it difficult to consistently implement strategies learned in training. Research led by Dr. Lauren Friedman at Arizona State University is exploring ways to better support these families by teaching parents organizational and time management skills alongside standard behavior management techniques.
Friedman's study is also testing a smartphone app designed to remind parents to consistently use behavior management strategies, aiming to improve outcomes for both parents and children with ADHD.