Dispelling ADHD Myths and Misunderstandings

While ADHD is common, it’s often misunderstood. For example, many parents are surprised to learn that, despite its name, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder doesn’t always present as hyperactivity in kids. And kids with ADHD don’t have a deficit of attention but rather a tough time directing their attention to things that don’t feel rewarding, like homework.

In a new article on childmind.org, we dispel these and other ADHD myths. We’ve also got deeper dives into some of these common confusions, including why girls aren’t diagnosed as often and whether kids grow out of ADHD. Plus, we explain why ADHD meds don’t increase kids’ risk of abusing substances.