Technology has improved so much over the last few decades. It has given us a 24/7 news cycle that gives us the newest stories and most recent updates every couple of minutes. We have social media which shows us new posts every few seconds with updates on the lives of those around us. Streaming services have given us countless options for television and movies so we can move from one to another immediately. These technology improvements can contribute to a smaller attention span in people. When someone notices they have a shorter attention span, it is common to hear them say “I am so ADD”. While the center of this is a deficit in attention, there is so much more to this disorder than simply not being able to pay attention to someone for long
ADD vs ADHD
Up until 1994, Attention-Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) were two separate disorders. In 1994, it was decided by a group of doctors that anything related to attention-deficit would be considered ADHD. This condition affects not only a person’s attention, but also their behavior. Those with ADHD can seem restless and may also may more impulsive decisions. Many cases of ADHD are diagnosed under the after of 12, however, it can be diagnosed at any age. It may not be recognized when a person is a child but may recognize it and obtain the diagnosis as an adult. It is believed that ADHD cannot develop in adults without first appearing in childhood, as it is a developmental disorder.
ADHD or Normal Child Behavior?
All children go through phases of restlessness and inattention, however, that does not necessarily mean they have ADHD. Symptoms of this disorder can be categorized into 2 types of behavioral problems: inattentiveness and hyperactivity/impulsiveness. While many people diagnosed fall into both categories, that is not always the case. Approximately 20%-30% of people with ADHD have problems concentrating or focusing but does not have hyperactivity or impulsiveness. Boys tend to be diagnosed more often than girls, possibly due to girls being less likely to show disruptiveness behavior. However, they are more likely to have symptoms of inattentiveness. These are much easier to identify in a child as they can cause significant problems in their lives such as underachievement in school, poor social interaction, and problems with discipline.
Inattentiveness and Hyperactivity
Inattentiveness can show in many ways. A short attention span and being easily distracted, making careless mistakes, and appearing forgetful or losing things are all signs of inattentiveness. Those with inattentiveness symptoms may be unable to stick to tasks that are tedious or time-consuming and may be unable to listen or carry out instructions. Finally, inattentiveness symptoms could also be constantly having to change activity or task and having difficulty organizing tasks. Hyperactivity and impulsiveness symptoms could be the inability to sit still, constant fidgeting and being unable to concentrate on tasks. Excessive physical movement and talking, being unable to wait their turn, and acting without thinking are also signs. Those fighting hyperactivity and impulsiveness may also interrupt conversations and have little to no sense of danger. As a child grows, hyperactivity tends to decrease while inattentiveness tends to remain as pressure of adult life increase.
Risk Factors
As with most mental health illnesses, the cause of ADHD is not fully understood, although a combination of factors is believed to be responsible. It tends to run in families, showing that genes inherited from parents can be a significant factor. Research has shown that the parents and siblings of someone with ADHD are more likely to have it themselves. The way it is inherited is complex and not related to a single genetic fault. Another factor is brain function and structure. Researchers have found multiple differences in the brains of people with ADHD and those without the condition. The significance of this is not quite clear though. Studies have shown that certain areas of the brain may be smaller in people with ADHD and those with the disorder may have an imbalance in the level of neurotransmitters or these chemicals may not be properly working.
Have Patience and Try to Understand
Everyone’s attention span can become shorter, especially as technology improves and instant gratification becomes more normalized. Having a short attention span does not necessarily mean a person has ADHD. There is much more that goes into a diagnosis such as this. There is help for those who have this condition, including medication, therapy, diet, and supplements. There are ways to work around this diagnosis and help those with it live fulfilling lives. Having ADHD does not mean a person cannot do certain things. It may just mean they have to work a little bit harder than those who do not have it. Patience and understanding are important when working and interacting with someone diagnosed with ADHD. Keep this in mind when talking or walking with someone who may have trouble concentrating. Their brain may be working differently, and they are trying to hard to pay attention.
