There are three different categories of symptoms that are associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, one of which is impulsivity symptoms. The other categories of symptoms are symptoms of hyperactivity and symptoms of inattention. Although every child is capable of exhibiting symptoms that are related to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder on a small scale, a child that exhibits these symptoms and characteristics on an excessive level are much more likely to have developed this disorder.
In order for a child to be diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, the symptoms that he or she exhibits must continue for at least six months to a greater degree than the symptoms other children are exhibiting.
Children that exhibit symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder relating to impulsivity may:
- They may have great difficulty being patient or show excessive impatience.
- They may blurt out comments that are inappropriate.
- They may show all of their emotions without exercising any type of restraint.
- They may take actions without showing any regard for the consequences of those actions.
- They may experience great difficulty waiting their turn in playing games or participating in activities.
- They may have trouble waiting for things.
- They may interrupt other people’s activities or conversations in an attempt to draw attention toward them.
It is important to consider that all children can exhibit these symptoms. The difference between a normal child and a child with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is that the ADHD child will experience these symptoms on a consistent and excessive basis to the point where it affects their lives. A child with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder will experience excessive levels of impatience and impulsivity rather than just the occasional bout of these symptoms. It is important to weigh all of the symptoms when diagnosing a child with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.