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Self-esteem and ADHD

The issue of self-esteem has already been raised with Reading Disability and many of the same issues will arise, as ADHD and Reading Disability as so often comorbid (See, you are learning the jargon!)

But there are three specific things about ADHD

(i) rejection by peers. Young people with ADHD often have few friends because of subtle things about their behaviour. They may not attend to social cues in conversation and their impulsivity means they may butt in at inappropriate times. Thus other kids may not want to engage with them. In addition, the parents of other children may discourage friendships, sometimes not allowing their children to associate with children perceived as "trouble-makers". Such children often find that they are not invited to birthday parties or to other children's houses.

(ii) our Australian studies show that up-to 70% of children with ADHD have comorbid problems with motor control (clumsiness). This has a major impact on sports and for example, who is chosen for the cricket team-you do not want someone who misses every catch. So while this may not be an academic issue for the school, it is a significant issue for the pupils.

(iii) medication at school. The role of drugs in treating ADHD is too big a topic for this website, except for one point. The drugs used in ADHD in the UK and Australia wear off very quickly, which is one argument as to their safety in that the body does metabolise them in a few hours (the US has legislated to allow newer drugs which last longer). Thus medication has to be given again during school time. This is bad enough for any child or any teacher but it is worse for multiples, as yet again your need for medication may distinguish you from your cotwins or higher multiples.