What is ADHD?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that impacts how the brain functions and develops, particularly the prefrontal cortex—the region associated with executive functioning.

The ADHD Brain

Prefrontal cortex

  • Orbital (behavioural inhibition)

  • Dorsolateral (verbal and nonverbal working memory; analysis and synthesis)

  • Ventromedial (self-regulation of affect, arousal, motivation)

Motor cortex

  • Reduced inhibition

  • Delayed maturation

  • Impaired modulation

  • Motor overflow

  • Variable responses

Executive Functioning Difficulties

Executive functioning can be compared to the skills a business executive needs to run an organisation efficiently, such as:

  • Managing attention (focusing and switching attention)

  • Planning and organizing tasks

  • Problem solving

  • Monitoring ongoing tasks

  • Demonstrating abstract reasoning

  • Initiating tasks independently

  • Using working memory effectively

  • Self-monitoring behaviors and emotions

  • Controlling emotions

  • Acting without impulsivity

Difficulties in these areas are common for individuals with ADHD, often making day-to-day functioning more challenging.

Parent-Child Dynamics and ADHD

Typical Behaviours in Children with ADHD

Children with ADHD may display behaviors that can challenge traditional parenting approaches, including:

  • Lower compliance with instructions and rules

  • Increased talkativeness, negativity, and defiance

  • Greater demands for time and attention

  • Reduced independence, requiring extra support

  • Heightened emotional reactivity

Parental Responses Over Time

Consistently managing these challenges can cause shifts in parental behavior, such as:

  • Becoming less emotionally responsive

  • Demonstrating more negativity or criticism

  • Adopting a more controlling or directive style

  • Experiencing increased stress levels

These shifts may contribute to a negative cycle of interaction, making it more difficult for both parent and child to change unhelpful patterns.

Shifting the Dynamic: Fostering Positive Interactions

Breaking the negative cycle is possible by focusing on more positive interactions. Effective strategies include:

  • Praising and reinforcing specific, desired behaviors

  • Showing empathy and understanding for your child’s unique challenges

  • Setting clear, realistic expectations

  • Prioritizing emotional connection over control

More positive moments nurture the parent-child relationship and encourage adaptive behavior over time.

Resources