Entries by Christian Nophsker

Self-Regulation and ADD/ADHD

In many ways, ADD/ADHD can be seen as a problem with self-regulation.  Self-regulation is one of the executive skills that an ADD Coach or Executive Skills Coach attempts to remediate.  Self-regulation involves regulating not only attention and focus, but behavior and mood.  Initially, deficits with self-regulation are addressed by others providing cues, reminders, structure and […]

Why Smart People with ADHD Make Poor Decisions

Parents, friends and spouses can become confused and frustrated when someone with ADHD can appear to be so smart in some situations, but still make such poor decisions in other situations.  The problem is that people with ADHD have an impairment with the executive functions.  Some of the executive functions include task persistence, sustained attention […]

How to Help Someone with ADHD Make it all the Way to the Finish Line

Goal directed persistence is a core weakness for individuals with ADHD.  Reaching long term goals can be problematic.  They have difficulty sustaining their attention and delaying gratification in order to reach a future goal.  The excitement and pleasure of some more immediate event present right here and now cannot be resisted.  The ADHD individual knows […]

What Can Parents with Daughters of ADHD do to Help Their Daughter Thrive Socially

The first step to helping your daughter thrive socially is to carefully evaluate exactly why your child is having her social difficulty.  Is she breaking personally space, having tantrums, interrupting, not waiting her turn,  missing social cues due to inattention, annoying other children with off task or silly behavior?  Or is she socially shy or […]

What can Parents with Daughters of ADHD do to Help Their Daughter Thrive at School/Academically?

Obtain a thorough evaluation by a professional with experience diagnosing and treating ADHD Education: Educate yourself as much as you can about ADHD and its management. Read books, talk to professionals, and research on the internet. Medication: Stimulant medication (methylfenadate, amphetamines) and nonstimulant medications (atomoxetine) have been shown to be effective. Seek a qualified physician to evaluate […]

ADHD Symptoms in Girls

What ADHD symptoms should parents look for in girls? There are three main type of ADHD symtpoms, impaired response inhibition, off task behaviors, and poor persistence or sustained attention. Impaired response inhibition includes: -difficulty delaying gratification -difficulty waiting ones turn -interrupting others -calling out, impassivity -difficulty stopping a task -being easily distracted -difficulty stopping an […]

Why is ADHD Underdiagnosed in Girls?

Why is ADHD underdiagnosed in girls? ADHD occurs in approximately 3-7% of the childhood population.  Boys are more likely to have the disorder than girls.  Boy are 3 times more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD than girls  and in mental health settings boys are 6-9 times more likely to be diagnosed.  This is primarily […]