ADHD in Girls and Women

In childhood, ADHD is clearly more common in boys than in girls; however, in adult samples, the sex differences in prevalence are mush smaller. There is also increasing recognition that girls and women may present with a different constellation of symptoms and behaviors.  For example, in children, girls are more likely to present with symptoms of inattention, whereas boys are more likely to exhibit hyperactivity and other disruptive behaviors.  Psychiatric comorbidity is common in individuals with ADHD.  However, while males are more likely to present with comorbid oppositional defiant disorder and conduct disorder, females are more likely to have comorbid mood disorders.

Based on the prevalence of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD, we have more research on ADHD in males than in females.  However, it is essential that we have a better understanding of ADHD as it occurs in girls and women if we are to improve their functional and clinical outcomes.  Based on a meeting hosted by the United Kingdom ADHD Partnership, a group of experts put together a consensus statement reviewing the clinical presentation, triggers for referral, assessment, and treatment in females with ADHD across the lifespan.  The full text of the article is available in the link below.

Young S, Adamo N, te al.  Females with ADHD: An expert consensus statement taking a lifespan approach providing guidance for the identification and treatment of attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder in girls and women. BMC Psychiatry, 2020; 20: 404.  FULL TEXT

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