Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders in childhood. However, symptoms can vary significantly by gender. Historically, ADHD was largely seen as hyperactive behavior more typically of boys, which means many girls didn't receive the support they needed.
Dr. Kalpana Kumari of Rise & Shine Pediatrics in South Plainfield, NJ, is highly skilled in identifying these nuanced differences. She and her team work closely with families to ensure every child receives an accurate diagnosis.
Here, she unpacks how ADHD symptoms differ in boys and girls.
Boys are diagnosed with ADHD at more than twice the rate of girls. This isn't necessarily because boys are more likely to have the condition, but because their symptoms are often more visible. In boys, ADHD is typically reflected in externalized, often disruptive behaviors that are difficult to miss in a classroom setting.
Typical symptoms in boys include:
Because these behaviors can disrupt the environment, teachers and parents often notice them early. This visibility often leads to earlier intervention and support.
In contrast, girls with ADHD often display internalized symptoms. Instead of physical hyperactivity, they may experience mental hyperactivity, which can look like daydreaming, trouble staying focused, or becoming easily distracted by unrelated thoughts. Because these behaviors aren't disruptive, they’re often dismissed as shyness or a lack of motivation.
Girls are more likely to struggle with:
Girls often develop coping mechanisms to mask their symptoms, which can lead to high levels of anxiety and exhaustion. They might work doubly hard to appear organized, hiding their struggle.
When ADHD goes undiagnosed in girls, it can lead to long-term challenges. By the time they reach adolescence, many girls without a diagnosis struggle with low self-esteem or mood disorders. They might blame themselves for not being able to stay on top of tasks, unaware that their brain functions differently.
Dr. Kumari looks beyond stereotypes, instead listening to how a child describes their internal experience. She recognizes that early intervention is key for both boys and girls.
If you suspect your child may have ADHD, the sooner they are evaluated, the sooner they can get the help they need. To book an appointment with Dr. Kamuri, call the office at 908-205-0632 or request an appointment online. We also offer telemedicine visits.
