Written by Caitlin Maramba | Art by Trevor Cheng
Did you know that 13% of males are diagnosed with ADHD as children, while only 6% of females are diagnosed? Of the 6.1 million diagnosed children with ADHD, the majority are boys. Many girls with ADHD are called spacey or lazy due to their symptoms of daydreaming and difficulty with school. However, many of these girls have ADHD. They have no way to control their symptoms and often mask them by overcompensating.
ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. However, it is better described as having difficulty regulating attention rather than having a deficit of attention. While those diagnosed with ADHD may have trouble paying attention in school over a long period of time, they can also exhibit a clear hyperfocus on things they are interested in. ADHD is more than the stereotypical boy bouncing against the walls and interrupting the classroom.
There are three main types of ADHD: impulsive, inattentive, or a combination of both. Impulsive ADHD symptoms are external and include aggressive behavior and difficulty staying still. Most boys have impulsive ADHD symptoms. Inattentive ADHD behavior is internal and consists of problems with paying attention and with executive functioning, such as memory or self-control. A majority of girls have inattentive ADHD symptoms, which are widely undiagnosed as most do not recognize the symptoms as a form of ADHD. Additionally, inattentive ADHD symptoms are easier to mask and, if undiagnosed for too long, can lead to other mental illnesses, which causes misdiagnosis.
Another impulsive ADHD symptom is talking excessively. On the other hand, additional inattentive ADHD symptoms consist of anxiety and academic underachievement. Other symptoms of ADHD in girls include difficulty in academic environments, focusing, organization, and memorization. To be diagnosed with ADHD, you must meet with a healthcare provider or doctor who will observe your symptoms and then give a diagnosis.
Treatments for ADHD include medication, therapy, and academic accommodations. Stimulants such as Adderall and methylphenidate can assist in balancing chemicals in the brain that cause difficulty regulating attention. Some forms of therapy, such as psychotherapy, can help a child and their parents learn more about their condition. Other forms, such as behavioral therapy, are aimed towards younger kids to confront possible symptoms later. Lastly, academic accommodations such as more time during tests, walking around during class, and assistance with organizing can significantly impact a child’s future and self-confidence.
ADHD is more than the “disruptive boy” in the classroom. Many girls who have different symptoms of the same mental illness are often underlooked and left undiagnosed until adulthood or for the rest of their lives. Heightened awareness of ADHD and its multiple forms will enable undiagnosed girls to take action and increase self-confidence. If you know someone who shares symptoms of inattentive or impulsive ADHD, encourage them to meet with a professional to receive a diagnosis and the support they need.
Works Cited:
“Inattentive ADHD in Women: How to Recognize Symptoms & Overcome Them.” add.org.
Attention Deficit Disorder Association, 13 October 2023, add.org/inattentive-adhd-women/. Accessed February 19, 2025.
Jones, Heather. “ADHD in Boys vs. Girls.” verywellhealth.com. Very Well Health, 9 February
2024, http://www.verywellhealth.com/do-adhd-symptoms-differ-in-boys-and-girls-5207995. Accessed February 19, 2025.
Pelham, Victoria. “Why ADHD Goes Undetected in Girls.” cedars-sinai.org. Cedars Sinai, 5
June 2024, http://www.cedars-sinai.org/blog/why-adhd-goes-undetected-in-girls.html. Accessed February 19, 2025.
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