ADHD awareness month: Pediatric neurologist lists 6 myths you should stop believing about the disorder

Myths you should stop believing about the ADHD disorder (Picture Credit: Unsplash)

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common childhood neurodevelopmental disorders, which includes inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity. However, common misunderstanding often obstructs the knowledge and leads to stigmatization and delayed help. We need to debunk and correct these myths if we hope for children with ADHD to receive the empathy, support and interventions they deserve to succeed.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is among the most prevalent neurodevelopmental disorders found in children, typically characterised by behaviours of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects children globally, including in India, where prevalence rates vary widely across regions. Nevertheless, despite its significance, ADHD in children continues to be misunderstood and underdiagnosed.

When misconceptions prevail, a child’s difficulties may be dismissed as laziness, misbehaviour, or simply “normal childhood energy.” While these misinterpretations prevent timely interventions, they also affect a child’s self-esteem, school performance as well as family relationships. Correcting these myths has thus become crucial to create supportive environments where children with ADHD can thrive, says Dr. Sonam Kothari, Pediatric Neurologist, CEO & Co- founder, Butterfly Learnings.

Here are six common myths about ADHD in children, alongside expert insights into why they are misleading and how to respond with understanding and accuracy:

⮚ ADHD: Too young, for preschoolers

It’s a common misconception that you can’t diagnose ADHD until a child is in school. In reality, symptoms might occur much sooner. Preschoolers who are highly restless, impulsive or distractible may be showing early signs of the disorder. In paediatric examinations it is determined whether such symptoms are severe, long-lasting, and affect development. Such early identification would pave the way for targeted and timely interventions – helping younger children to form stronger social, emotional foundations.

⮚ Children with ADHD are just lazy

A child who struggles to finish assignments or pay attention in class is often called unmotivated. In truth, ADHD makes it challenging to sustain concentration on tasks that demand prolonged effort, especially when the activity does not provide immediate stimulation. What may appear as laziness is often a coping mechanism for the majority of challenges. With the right support systems, children with ADHD are just as capable of demonstrating motivation and achievement as their peers.

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⮚ Hyperactivity or daydreaming is just part of being a child

Many dismiss ADHD symptoms as normal childhood behaviour - whether a child is “too energetic” or frequently lost in thought. Though occasional impulsivity or inattention is considered normal, children with ADHD experience these behaviours to an extent that disrupts their ability to learn, interact socially, and participate in family routines. The distinction lies in the impact on daily functioning. Recognising this difference allows families and educators to intervene early, further preventing long-term challenges in development.

⮚ Treatment should end as soon as possible

A widespread belief is that ADHD treatment should be short-lived to discontinue therapy or medication quickly. However, ADHD is a chronic condition that evolves over time. The true objective of treatment is not to “cure” the condition but to equip children with measures that help them function effectively at each stage of life. Structured behavioural therapies, classroom adaptations and, in some cases, medical support enable children to adapt, learn, and grow more confidently.

⮚ Children with ADHD face difficulties to focus on anything

Parents often notice that, despite their struggles to complete homework, their children can stay engrossed in video games for hours. Such distinction does not disprove ADHD. Therefore, it becomes imperative for caregivers to understand that ADHD affects the ability to sustain attention on tasks that lack stimulation or clear rewards like academic assignments. On the other hand, activities like gaming that are designed to be highly engaging naturally hold attention.

⮚ Poor parenting results in ADHD

The most toxic myth is that a child’s struggles mean the parents are to blame. ADHD is a brain-based disorder, it is not the result of poor parenting or discipline. While parenting techniques may have an impact on the management of symptoms, it is not to blame for the condition. In addition, commonsensical parenting advice along with professional support, can go a long way toward a child managing the challenges of living with ADHD.

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In general, misconceptions of ADHD in children hide the truth of a disorder that needs compassion, early identification and intervention. Adhering to these misconceptions’ delays help and have implications for a child's self-esteem and their long-term progress.

FAQs on myths around ADHD disorder:

1. Is ADHD just an excuse for being lazy or undisciplined?

Myth: People with ADHD just need to “try harder.”
Fact: ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects brain areas responsible for attention, impulse control, and executive functioning. It’s not about effort or motivation — people with ADHD often work harder than others just to stay organized or focused.

2. Do only children have ADHD?

Myth: ADHD is a childhood disorder that people outgrow.
Fact: While symptoms often start in childhood, ADHD can persist into adulthood. Many adults are diagnosed later in life when coping strategies fail or symptoms interfere with work and relationships.

3. Is ADHD caused by bad parenting or too much screen time?

Myth: Poor parenting or technology causes ADHD.
Fact: ADHD has strong genetic and neurological foundations. Parenting style and environment can influence how symptoms show up, but they do not cause the disorder.

4. Are people with ADHD always hyperactive?

Myth: Everyone with ADHD is constantly moving or loud.
Fact: ADHD has different presentations — inattentive, hyperactive-impulsive, and combined types. Some individuals may seem daydreamy or disorganized rather than hyperactive.

5. Do ADHD medications turn people into “zombies”?

Myth: Medication makes people dull or emotionless.
Fact: When properly prescribed and monitored, ADHD medication helps regulate focus and behavior — it doesn’t erase personality. If someone feels “zombie-like,” the dose or medication type may need adjustment.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.