interesting; and not paying enough attention, especially to details and organization. These attention difficulties result in incomplete assignments, careless errors, and messy work. Children with ADHD often tune out activities that are dull, or uninteresting. Their performances are inconsistent both at home and in school. Social situations are affected by getting lost in conversations, not listening to others, and not following directions to games or rules. Symptoms of inattention, as listed in the DSM IV are: "often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities; often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities; often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly; often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace (not due to oppositional behavior or failure to understand instructions); often has difficulty organizing tasks and activities; often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort (such as schoolwork or homework); often loses things necessary for tasks or activities (e.g., toys, school assignments, pencils, books, or tools); is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli; is often forgetful in daily activities." .
Hyperactivity. Excessive activity is the most visible sign of ADHD. Studies show that these children are more active than those without the disorder, even during sleep. The greatest differences are usually seen in school settings. Many parents find their toddlers and preschoolers quite active. In elementary years, children with ADHD will be more fidgety and squirmy than their same-age peers who do not have the disorder. They also are up and out of their seats more. Adolescents and adults feel more restless and bothered by quiet activities. At all ages, excessive and loud talking may be apparent.