National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) Dental Hygienist Practice Test

Which of the following is NOT true in regard to ADHD?

1. Treatment may include stimulants

2. May cause irritability and impulsiveness

3. More common in girls

4. Can make it difficult to acquire new skills

The correct answer is: More common in girls

The statement that ADHD is more common in girls is not true. Research shows that Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is generally more frequently diagnosed in boys compared to girls. The ratio is often cited as approximately 2:1, with boys being diagnosed more often than girls. Although girls can have ADHD, their symptoms may present differently, often leading to underdiagnosis or misdiagnosis. Girls with ADHD might display less hyperactivity and more inattentive symptoms, which can be less noticeable in educational settings compared to the disruptive behavior often seen in boys. In regard to the other statements: Treatment for ADHD typically does include stimulants, which are commonly prescribed to help manage symptoms. These medications can be effective in improving focus and reducing impulsiveness. Additionally, individuals with ADHD often display behaviors such as irritability and impulsiveness, impacting their social interactions. Furthermore, ADHD can indeed make it challenging to acquire new skills, as the disorder affects attention and executive functioning, which are crucial for learning and skill development.