Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects both children and adults. Individuals with ADHD often struggle with inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, impacting various aspects of their daily lives. Now, let me introduce you to Jessica McCabe, a vibrate and creative individual navigating the challenges and strengths that come with ADHD.
Diagnosed with ADHD at the age of 12, Jessica McCabe, actress and founder of "How to ADHD" shares her personal experiences, valuable insights, and strategies to help individuals to understand and manage ADHD. While exploring the multifaceted impact of ADHD she found a large gap in resources that focused on living with ADHD as an adult. Motivated by this, she initiated her YouTube channel, addressing this underrepresented group of individuals impacted by ADHD. Her energetic and engaging approach combines humor and relatability, making her a prominent figure in the ADHD community.
Self-Concept and Perceptions
Self-concept is the way an individual perceives themselves cognitively. "It includes a descriptive definition of the self and the ideas, beliefs, and attitudes about the self and one’s competencies in various domains" (Houck et al., 2011). Individuals with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder face daily challenges and that has the potential to influence how they perceive their abilities and interactions with the world. Developing a positive self-concept and perception is crucial for individuals struggling with ADHD. Positive self-image can enhance resilience, motivation, and overall well-being.
Coping with ADHD
Coping mechanisms for individuals with ADHD often involve a combination of practical strategies such as structured routines, medication, therapy, exercise, etc. It is important that coping mechanisms are tailored to fit the needs of each unique individual. Professional guidance and support can be helpful in finding strategies that effectively support individuals with ADHD. Professionals can provide recommendations that address specific challenges and enhance coping mechanisms.
Check out this free guide presented by Dr. William Dodson on ADHD Coping Mechanisms.
ADHD primarily affects cognitive and behavioral aspects rather than physical development. However, recent research has found a correlation between ADHD and challenges with fine motor skills. The findings suggest that individuals with ADHD may face difficulties in tasks requiring precision and coordination, impacting their fine motor skills (Gilbert et al., 2019). Numerous case studies have been conducted to explore the indirect correlation of fine motor skill impairment and ADHD. Individuals are unique, and this information should not be used to make assumptions or perpetuate stereotypes.
ADHD Impacts Psychological Development
Individuals with ADHD may be more prone to psychological issues like anxiety, depression, anger, or aggression (Langham et al., 2018). ADHD can impact psychological development through challenges in attention, impulse control, and executive function. This can contribute to feelings of frustration and low self-concept and self-esteem(Houck et al., 2011). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, "A national 2016 parent survey, 6 in 10 children with ADHD had at least one other mental, emotional, or behavioral disorder" (Data and statistics about ADHD, 2023).
ADHD Impacts Social Development
"Children with ADHD tend to have more social issues than children without the condition. More specifically, they tend to have a harder time making and keeping friends and socializing in peer groups – both in and out of the classroom and at social events" (Langham et al., 2018). Individuals with ADHD may face a variety of social challenges. These can include difficulties in maintaining attention during conversations, impulsivity affecting social interactions, and struggles with organizational skills impacting relationships. ADHD may bring unique challenges but individuals with this neurodevelopmental condition can certainly have normal and fulfilling relationships.
Below you will find a video from Jessica's YouTube channel. Disabilities are often only reflected upon in a negative light. This video highlights some of the positive impacts that ADHD can have on an individual's life. It is important to find beauty in our own uniqueness.
References:
Bailey, E. (2022, March 30). Born this way: Personal stories of life with ADHD. Born This Way: Personal Stories of Life with ADHD. https://www.additudemag.com/adhd-personal-stories-real-life-people-living-with-adhd/
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, October 16). Data and statistics about ADHD. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/data.html
Dodson M.D., W. (2022, April 4). Your free guide to ADHD coping mechanisms. ADDitude. https://www.additudemag.com/download/adhd-coping-mechanisms/
Gilbert, D. L., Huddleston, D. A., Wu, S. W., Pedapati, E. V., Horn, P. S., Hirabayashi, K., Crocetti, D., Wassermann, E. M., & Mostofsky, S. H. (2019, August 6). Motor cortex inhibition and modulation in children with ADHD. Neurology. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6709998/
Houck G; Kendall J; Miller A; Morrell P; Wiebe G; (2011). Self-concept in children and adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Journal of pediatric nursing. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21601148/
Langham, R., Sokolovic, A. (Jovanovic), Munson, C., & Sher, D. (2018, December 24). The psychological effects of ADHD in children. Parenting Pod. https://parentingpod.com/adhd-effects/
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) A Neurodevelopmental Disorder Characterized by Persistent Patterns of Inattention, Hyperactivity, and Impulsivity. Understanding the psychological concepts to ADHD provides a foundation for developing targeted interventions and support strategies to help individuals manage and cope with symptoms of ADHD. The Dynamic Developmental Theory of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) The dynamic developmental theory of ADHD emphasizes the complex interplay of genetic, neurobiological, and environmental factors in shaping the course of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. This theory suggests that ADHD symptoms may manifest differently across developmental stages, influenced by ongoing cognitive, emotional, and social maturation. This theory suggest that genetic predisposition may be the foundation of ADHD but that neurological changes and environmental stressors can contribute to the manifestation of symptoms over time....
Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) ADHD is a prevalent psychiatric disorder that often manifests in childhood with symptoms of inappropriate inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. These symptoms, when present, may impact age-appropriate behavior and can persist into adolescence and adulthood if not properly addressed. The estimated number of children aged 3–17 years ever diagnosed with ADHD, according to a national survey of parents, is 6 million (9.8%) using data from 2016-2019. Symptoms People with ADHD show a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity . Inattention Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, at work, or with other activities. Often has trouble holding attention on tasks or play activities. Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly. Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the work...
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders of childhood. It is usually first diagnosed in childhood and often lasts into adulthood. Children with ADHD may have trouble paying attention, controlling impulsive behaviors (may act without thinking about what the result will be), or be overly active. ( Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , 2023) ADHD Challenges Individuals with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder commonly face a variety of challenges including Inattention, Hyperactivity, Impulsivity, Time Management Issues, Academic or Work Challenges, Relationship Strain, Low Frustration Tolerance, Procrastination, Emotional Regulation, and Self-Esteem Issues. Listed below are some examples of daily activities that can be difficult for an individual with ADHD: Paying close attention to details or making seemingly careless mistakes at work or during other activities Sustaining attention f...
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