Girls & ADHD: Are You Missing the Signs
When you think ADHD, do you think boy? You’re not alone. Boys are three times more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD, even though they’re no more likely to have it. Too many young girls are not getting the help they need.
That’s why teachers are so important. When it comes to learning disabilities, teachers are right there on the front line. We’re often the first to spot a child’s difficulties and to bring it to the attention of parents and specialists. It’s important that we know the different ways ADHD may manifest in our girl students and the reasons we may miss it.
Alarmingly, some studies estimate that as many as 50% to 75% of girls with ADHD are missed. Worse, girls with ADHD are diagnosed on average five years later than boys—boys at age 7, girls at age 12. Five crucial years girls could be getting help are lost.
“ADHD is not gender-linked,” says Dr. Patricia Quinn, director of the Center for Gender Issues and ADHD and an expert on ADHD in girls. Recent data shows medication for ADHD is dispensed equally to men and women. It follows that if adults are experiencing the disorder in equal numbers, children might too.
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