Over the last decade, the rate of childhood ADHD diagnoses has risen and according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the disorder has become a leading childhood chronic condition in this country. The increasing prevalence has prompted media attention, heated debates and a plethora of conflicting information that can leave parents confused about what ADHD really is and how it presents in children and teens. Our child ADHD quiz tackles some of the common myths and misunderstandings surrounding childhood and teen ADHD.

Can you accurately identify ADHD in your child? Test your knowledge with our True/False child ADHD quiz below.

 

Child ADHD Quiz: True or False?

1. Kids with ADHD are often labeled as troublemakers in school.

 
True. Undiagnosed or misdiagnosed children deal with concentration problems, trouble paying attention, disorganization, and memory issues. Acting out may result from attempts to manage school and social relationships without proper treatment. Too often, ADHD is met with strict discipline rather than appropriate medical attention.
 

2. Since your child’s teachers often note your child’s “energy,” they are the best gauges of whether your child has ADHD.

 
False. Teachers may know your child well, but still misinterpret your child’s behavior. ADHD is a medical condition best diagnosed and treated by a medical professional. Make a doctor’s appointment before attempting to address their concerns. Community members that teach and guide your child will be good resources for assistance later.
 

3. Your child’s messy desk, run-ins with other kids at school, and perpetually missing school assignments are normal kids’ stuff.

 
False. Kids are often energetic and excitable. However, children who are unable to maintain their spaces, cooperate with others, or succeed in school may benefit from an ADHD assessment.
 

4. If your child isn’t hyperactive, you can cross ADHD off the list.

 
False. All children with ADHD are not “hyper.” Hyperactivity is only one indication of ADHD. While kids that fidget, are impulsive, talk incessantly, or seem inordinately self-focused, do exhibit signs of predominantly hyperactive-impulsive ADHD, some children present symptoms less overtly. Kids with predominantly inattentive ADHD are often so distracted and unfocused that they are unable to participate in class, follow directions, or participate well in conversations. Most children manage a combination of ADHD types.
 

5. Your child is too young to be diagnosed.

 
False. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, you can receive an ADHD diagnosis before school starts, as young as age 4. This allows parents an opportunity to increase awareness and implement a treatment plan before academic and socialization problems become issues.
 

6. Children with ADHD respond best to short term-goals and immediate rewards.

 
True. Long-term projects, planning, even prolonged instruction is difficult for a child with ADHD to manage. Though they may be interested, lack of focus and a strong tendency to become distracted leads to poor execution of long-term goals. Tasks that are broken up and acknowledged in phases see much better results.
 

7. Girls don’t get ADHD.

 
False. The fact that boys are diagnosed up to three times more than girls, does not mean girls are somehow immune. Instead, girls are often overlooked. ADHD symptoms tend to be more internal, verbal, and difficult to pinpoint in girls. Girls may struggle in school for much longer due to an improper assessment of their symptoms.

 
Did our child ADHD quiz reveal any misconceptions you had? If you suspect that your child may be struggling with ADHD, our team of experienced and skilled clinicians can offer support with ADHD counseling for children and adults.