Teen ADHD And Impulsive Behaviors: Symptoms, Diagnosis, And Treatment

There are three primary types of ADHD: inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, and combined. Let’s break each of these down into what they mean and how they correspond to slightly different needs. 

Teens with inattentive ADHD often face challenges with focus and organization, impacting tasks like homework, assignments, and tests. They may appear distracted or “zoned out” during conversations and find it hard to retain important information like instructions, plans, or birthdays. 

Signs of the inattentive subtype include:

• Difficulty paying attention to details
• Being easily distracted by unrelated thoughts
•  Difficulty staying focused on tasks, especially those requiring sustained mental effort
• Appearing forgetful in daily activities or losing items, such as personal belongings

Teens with hyperactive-impulsive ADHD often struggle with excessive energy and controlling impulses, potentially leading to acting disruptively in class, rushed or erroneous work, and difficulty waiting their turn in conversations. They may be prone to engaging in risky behaviors without considering the consequences. 

Key signs of the hyperactive-impulsive subtype include:

• Feeling restless or fidgety, and constantly “on the go”
• Talking excessively or blurting out answers before questions are finished
•  Interrupting conversations or activities, often without realizing
• Struggling to wait their turn in group situations

The combined type includes symptoms of both inattentiveness and hyperactivity, such as trouble focusing, staying organized, restlessness, and impulsivity. The combined type is the most common form of ADHD in teens.