NPR Audio: Diagnosis Can Miss ADHD Symptoms In Girls

Diagnosis Can Miss ADHD Symptoms In Girls

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The majority of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) research has focused on boys. But recent research shows that many girls who have ADHD simply aren't diagnosed — ADHD manifests itself in girls as detachment and distraction rather than in the disruptive behavior often seen in boys.

Until, recently the majority of ADHD research has concentrated on those boys. But, even though young men do struggle with ADHD look beyond them and you'll see girls who are fighting the disorder. Only, they tend to be staring out a window - distracted and disconnected. These girls often are under-diagnosed and at a higher risk for depression, substance abuse, eating disorders and trouble with their peers.