Erin Lester / Cultura / Getty Images
ADHD is hereditary, at least in part.
So if you have ADHD, your children will have a greater risk of also having attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Some research has found that the heritability of ADHD is around 80%.
Erin Lester / Cultura / Getty Images
However, the exact genetic mechanisms are not yet fully understood.
This doesn’t mean that your children are 100% guaranteed to have ADHD.
Instead, it means they may have a higher chance of having this bang out of neurodivergence.
Instead, it is a neurotype that represents a difference in how the brain works.
The answer to this question depends on several factors.
The biggestcause of ADHDis genes,which means that ADHD does run in families.
This is because it is a combination of genes and environmental factors that determine whether a child develops ADHD.
They can inherit ADHD genes without them being activated.
This article discusses proactive approaches you’re able to take to help your child if they inherit ADHD.
Be Observant
If your child starts to display signs orADHD characteristics, seek professional help.
It is also important to tell your child’s pediatrician that there is a family history of ADHD.
If you learn and implementADHD-friendly life skillsand seek appropriate medical assistance, your child will too.
Children like to fit in.
If they are the only child at school with ADHD, it can make them feel isolated and lonely.
However, dont feel guilty that your child has ADHD.
Just like the color of their eyes, you have no control over which genes they inherited.
Sharing this condition can also help your child feel closer to you.
If your child does develop ADHD, don’t feel guilty.
Be Positive
More is known about ADHD than ever before.
In addition, your child has a supportive parent who understands their struggles.
That doesnt necessarily mean that your parents werent supportive.
Each generation does its best with the knowledge and research that is available to them at that time.
It’s also helpful toreframehow you view ADHD.
Genetics has a significant role, but environmental variables also interact with genetics to cause the condition.
Traumatic brain injuries are also thought to be a risk factor.
2016;12:581-588. doi:10.2147/NDT.S100238
Rucklidge JJ.Gender differences in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.Psychiatr Clin North Am.
2018;47(sup1):S127S136.
doi:10.1080/15374416.2016.1169538
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.ADHD throughout the years.
2018;172(5):437. doi:10.1001/jamapediatrics.2017.5746