Adolescence and ADHD

Dr Deirdre Mac Carvill

September 22th 2009

Characteristics of ADHDChildhood Adolescence

� Inattention Inattention

� ImpulsivityPoor Impulse Control

� Hyperactivity Restlessness

Adolescence

� Desire for independence

� Increased responsibilities

� Issues with;

� Identity

� Peer groups

� Acceptance

� Physical Development

Adolescence

� Young people with ADHD;

� Often deny their condition

� Refuse to take their medication

� Don’t want to be different

ADHD Challenges in

Adolescence

� Impulse behaviours causing problems for the young

person

� Annoying others and causing difficulties in and out of the

classroom

� Restless fidgety behaviours getting them into trouble

� Missing subtle social cues from others

� Difficulties with academic and social events

Moving forward

� The adolescent with ADHD needs to learn about the

condition and how it specifically affects them!

Parent’s Role

� Facilitate appropriate independence seeking

� Maintain adequate structure and supervision

� Establish “Bottom Line” rules for living in your home and

enforce them consistently

� Negotiate all the issues which are not bottom line

� Use consequences wisely

Any Questions?