ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition rooted in brain development and executive function differences—not a question of discipline or personality. The themes of ADHD are the same across the lifespan: inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. However, the appearance and impact of these symptoms on daily life often differ significantly between children and adults.

Globally, ADHD affects about 5.9% of children and adolescents. For adults, around 2.6% continue to meet criteria for ADHD, with 40–60% of kids carrying symptoms into adulthood. The diagnosis is made using the same criteria, but the way symptoms show up shifts with age, environment, and coping strategies.

A firm understanding of these developmental differences is essential for early, accurate diagnosis and tailored support.

ADHD in Children: The Bold and the Busy

  • Classic Signs: Symptoms typically include hyperactivity (e.g., fidgeting, climbing, not staying seated), impulsivity (interrupting, blurting out), and inattention (difficulty finishing tasks or following instructions)
  • School and Social Impact: Kids often face academic struggles and have trouble following classroom routines or doing homework. Co-occurring issues like learning disabilities, anxiety, or behavior challenges are not uncommon.
  • Diagnosis Process: ADHD in children is typically identified through behavioral checklists, observations, teacher/parent reports, and clinical interviews—grounded in DSM-5 criteria requiring six or more symptoms lasting at least six months across settings.

ADHD in Adults: Underneath the Surface

  • Subtle Symptoms: Adults usually show fewer overt hyperactive behaviors. Instead, they experience internal restlessness—mental overdrive, difficulty relaxing, and distractibility.
  • Challenges in Daily Life: Adults with ADHD face struggles with organization, procrastination, time management, job performance, relationship maintenance, and emotional regulation.
  • Prevalence & Persistence: Research indicates that between 40–60% of children with ADHD continue to exhibit symptoms into adulthood, and about 15% meet full diagnostic criteria later in life.
  • Diagnostic Nuances: Adult diagnosis is more complex, involving retrospective recall of childhood symptoms and meeting five symptoms (versus six in children) across domains like work and home

Why Understanding These Differences Matters

The story of ADHD is one of continuity with evolving expression. Children may act out behaviors they can’t control, while adults are more likely to internalize struggles or develop elaborate “masking” strategies to hide them. Women, particularly those with inattentive-type ADHD, are especially prone to late or missed diagnoses.

Understanding this trajectory is vital for tailoring support:

  • For children: parent training, school accommodations, and behavioral interventions.
  • For adults: coaching, CBT, medication, and organizational tools.

ADHD isn’t a one-size-fits-all experience—it grows, shifts, and takes on new forms across the lifespan.

Our Approach

At I Choose Change, we guide families and individuals through every stage, bridging the transition from childhood diagnosis to adult management with compassion, clarity, and competence.

Need a developmentally attuned plan for managing ADHD—whether for your child or yourself? We’re here to help you understand how Executive Functioning Coaching can support you in recognizing symptoms, navigating challenges, and thriving in everyday life.