Overview Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is classified as a neurodevelopmental condition that usually shows up during early childhood. ADHD can pose many challenges in everyday activities. But, many people take comfort in the misconception that children with ADHD are smarter than those without the disorder. However, intelligence and ADHD don’t go hand in hand. Some people with ADHD might have higher IQs. But ,assuming that there’s a correlation may be harmful because it can keep your child from getting the help they need.

What is ADHD? ADHD is often diagnosed around the age of 7. However, symptoms of the disorder are generally seen before the age of 12. ADHD is best known for causing hyperactive behavior and attention difficulties. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), about 9 percent of U.S. children and 4 percent of adults have the disorder. The reason there are statistical differences is because in some adults symptoms improve so they no longer meet the diagnostic criteria for the disorder. It’s also more prevalent in boys. Some of the most common symptoms of ADHD are: impatience

constant motion

difficulty sitting still

constant talking

trouble completing tasks

inability to listen or follow directions when given instructions

boredom unless constantly entertained

interrupting other conversations

doing things without thinking (or on impulse)

problems learning concepts and materials at school The National institute of Mental Health (NIMH) also classifies the disorder into three subtypes: predominantly inattentive (more symptoms of inattention exist compared with hyperactivity)

predominantly hyperactive-impulsive

combined hyperactive-impulsive and inattentive (this is the most common form of ADHD) To be diagnosed with ADHD, you must exhibit six or more symptoms (though adults may only need to exhibit five or more symptoms for a diagnosis).

ADHD and IQ There is much debate about whether someone with ADHD automatically has a high IQ. There is even more debate about what such a correlation means. Depending on the severity of symptoms, ADHD can affect a person’s ability to function at school and work. Everyday tasks can also be difficult. This can give the impression that person has a lower IQ when it is not the case. According to a 2010 study published in Psychological Medicine, adults who had both high IQs and ADHD were found to have overall less cognitive function compared to other participants who had high IQ but not ADHD. A range of verbal, memory, and problem-solving tests were used in the study. One problem with this study, however, is that there were no other control groups. For instance, there were no ADHD-only or low-IQ groups for comparison. On the flip side, many people with ADHD only seem to focus their attention on something they enjoy doing. This can translate well into school or work. In such cases, it’s not that IQ is low—it’s just that these individuals can only focus on things they care most about. Another report published in a 2011 issue of Psychological Medicine further determined that IQ and ADHD are separate entities. The study claims that IQ can run in families much the same as ADHD, but having a relative with a high IQ doesn’t mean another family member with ADHD will have the same IQ.

Possible issues The ADHD diagnostic process can also pose problems when determining whether a child is “smart” or not. There is no one particular test that can accurately diagnose ADHD— instead, the process is based on long-term observations of possible symptoms. Some other conditions, such as autism or bipolar disorder, might also be mistaken for ADHD. The disorder may also be seen in some children who have learning disabilities, since some people with ADHD have process difficulties. Stimulants, such as Ritalin and Adderall, are the most common medications used to treat ADHD, and are quite effective. A stimulant is helpful in some cases because it’s believed that increasing levels of chemicals in the brain helps to increase focus. These drugs may reduce hyperactivity, too. Some people may also experience less impulsivity. Stimulants can make a huge difference for some children who experience school difficulties. The IQs of those who can fully learn and take tests may increase because of their improved ability to focus on tasks involved in formal IQ testing.