ADHD in Children (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that are inconsistent with developmental level and significantly impact daily functioning at home, school, or socially.

ADHD affects approximately 5–8% of school-age children globally. In Korea, ADHD diagnosis and management have grown significantly in recent years as awareness has increased, alongside recognition of the intense academic pressure Korean children face, which can make attention difficulties particularly visible. Boys are diagnosed more often than girls; girls more often present with predominantly inattentive type ADHD ('dreamy', quiet, disorganised) and are often diagnosed later.

Three presentations of ADHD: predominantly inattentive (difficulty sustaining attention, easily distracted, forgetful, loses things); predominantly hyperactive-impulsive (fidgets, cannot stay seated, talks excessively, interrupts, difficulty waiting); and combined presentation (most common).

Diagnosis requires symptoms present in more than one setting (home AND school), onset before age 12, and causing significant functional impairment. Diagnosis is clinical — there is no blood test or brain scan. Standardised rating scales completed by parents and teachers (Conners, Vanderbilt) and clinical interview by a paediatric psychiatrist or developmental paediatrician are the standard approach.

Management is multimodal. Behavioural interventions are first-line for children under 6. Parent training, classroom accommodations (extra time, preferential seating, reduced distractions), and social skills training are core strategies. Medication (stimulants — methylphenidate, amphetamines; or non-stimulants — atomoxetine) is evidence-based and safe when properly prescribed and monitored. Medication does not 'cure' ADHD but significantly improves focus and impulsivity in most children.

In Korea, ADHD evaluation and management is provided by major hospitals' Child and Adolescent Psychiatry departments and a growing number of private paediatric psychiatrists and developmental paediatricians.