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ADHDaffects millions of children around the world.
However, this disorder is widely accepted to affect more boys than girls.
Around 15% of boys will get an ADHD diagnosis.
Nitat Termmee / Getty Images
In comparison, only 8% of girls will receive an ADHD diagnosis.
This article discusses how boys display signs of the disorder.
Read on to learn about the ADHD diagnosis procedures, plus possible treatment methods.
What Is ADHD?
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is aneurodevelopmental disorder.
In addition to attention challenges and hyperactivity, ADHD may also manifest as a lack of self-control.
This condition is recognized in people who appear impulsive, rash, inconsiderate, or careless for their age.
This disorder can cause challenges in everyday life.
ADHD may take the form of a predominantlyinattentive typeor with primarily hyperactive-impulsive behaviors.
It can also present as a combination of both.
In reality, theres a chance each sex is equally affected by the condition.
Boys make more impulsive decisions, whereas girls may havedifficulty making decisions.
However, by adulthood, these differences appear to even out.
While girls with this disorder may struggle with self-esteem, this is less common in boys.
There is some association between ADHD and higher rates of suicidal behavior in both genders.
If you are having suicidal thoughts, contact theNational Suicide Prevention Lifelineat988for support and assistance from a trained counselor.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
How Is ADHD Diagnosed in Boys?
While boys tend to have more disruptive symptoms of ADHD, not every male child will present this way.
Another diagnostic tool is electroencephalography (EEG).
There are known brain wave patterns that indicate a diagnosis of ADHD, known as an abnormal beta-to-theta ratio.
How Does ADHD Affect Boys?
ADHD tends to present with a more aggressive, energized side in boys.
They may struggle with their peers at school and can display defiant or rule-breaking behavior.
ADHD can lead to a more injury-prone life in boys.
Teenagers with this disorder are more likely to smoke, drink, dabble in drugs, or develop addictions.
It isnt uncommon for them to run into issues with the law.
Children with ADHD can also develop other psychiatric conditions, such asdepressiveandanxiety disorders.
ADHD Treatment
There are different options available to manage ADHD.
However, treatment methods can depend on the child and family.
For children above this age, medication could be used in addition to behavior management strategies.
Medication
Drugs are an established and effective method to manage ADHD symptoms.
Medication for this disorder can improve attention and challenging behaviors and may be helpful for improving daily life.
Behavior Therapy
ADHD can lead to very disruptive behaviors in children.
This can affect interactions with loved ones, teachers, and peers.
Throughbehavior therapy, a child can learn new strategies to modify behaviors that can be challenging to deal with.
Classroom modifications can be made, and reward systems can be used in school and at home.
Cognitive Neurotherapy
Another pop in of therapy is calledneurofeedback.
This is done using an EEG-to-computer interface.
The electrical feedback is transmitted to a screen in a meaningful way for the individual to interact with.
It is sometimes in the form of a video game, a movie, or music.
New Technology
There are even prescription video games that kids can play at home!
These can appeal to boys and girls alike.
Final Thoughts
ADHD can cause challenging symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsiveness.
Boys with this disorder may appear to be more disruptive than their peers.
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