Although a relatively new diagnosis, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, known as ADHD, was first acknowledged more than 150 years ago.

Symptoms usually start around age 3 and often include impulsiveness and disruptive behavior.

Boys are diagnosed with ADHD three times more often than girls. However, a study at the University of California at Berkeley suggests that ADHD in girls may more often go undiagnosed when the child seems to be a daydreamer who is passive or bored.

Uncontrolled ADHD in early years can lead to emotional, academic and substance abuse issues in teenage years. Treatment for ADHD is somewhat controversial. The drug Ritalin is often prescribed to treat ADHD.

New studies show that many children with moderate cases respond well to a routine that involves additional physical activity as well as behavioral therapy in place of medication. An evaluation by a child psychiatrist, behavioral pediatrician or neurologist is the first step to rule out other conditions such as a learning disability, anxiety or depression.

Training courses are available to help parents better understand and manage their child’s behavior.