Because the process of social adjustment is still incomplete in children, it is fairly common for parents to overlook signs of emotional or psychological abnormality. It is not uncommon or abnormal for a child to have behavioral problems at home or in school, which is why it may not occur to many parents to seek professional consultation when faced with such issues. If the child begins to display a number of the symptoms below, however, it may be an indicator of a deeper issue that could manifest problems in adulthood if professional intervention is not sought. Common indicators are:

1. Constant feeling overwhelmed by and unable to cope with emotions.
2. Frequent crying, requests for help.
3. Preoccupation with fears and anxieties that may interfere with daily activities.
4. Constant need for self-stimulation, such as thumb-sucking, body-rocking, or more destructive modes like striking body parts.
5. Low self-esteem and self-confidence resulting in the child feeling incapable and helpless.
These are only a few of possible warning signs. Seek the help of a professional if concerned by the behavior of your child.

About the author: Dr. Kimberly Hammes Frank is a mental health specialist who specializes in working with young people. She currently operates a private practice in Racine, Wisconsin.

A veteran child psychiatrist, Dr. Kimberly Frank specializes in mood disorders, ADHD, anxiety disorders, and trauma in children and adolescents.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common childhood condition, but can also extend through adulthood. ADHD is characterized by hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. 

There are three subtypes of ADHD. The first is “predominantly hyperactive-impulsive,” meaning the majority of the symptoms exhibited are in the hyperactivity and impulsivity group. These can include an inability to participate in quiet play and interrupting. Although inattention may be present to some degree, it is not as severe as the other groups.

The second subtype is “predominantly inattentive.” Most of the symptoms in this category are in the inattention group, while symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity are less present. This subtype is often difficult to diagnose, because these children may still get along with other children and not act out. They have difficulty focusing on what they are doing, but because they sit quietly, can be overlooked by their teachers or parents.

The third subtype of ADHD--and the most common–is “combined hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive.” These are children who exhibit all of the symptoms of ADHD.

Unfortunately, there is no cure, but treatment is available. Because of the nature of the disorder, ADHD can be difficult to diagnose, and can sometimes be misdiagnosed. It is natural for children to exhibit these symptoms, but it is the severity of these symptoms that is they key to diagnosing ADHD.