Psychology
ADHD in children: signs, diagnosis and treatment
ADHD is more than an active child. What the signs are, what else can look like it, how it is assessed, and which treatments help at each age.
27 Sept 20269 min read
Autism
Also known as Autism spectrum disorder, ASD, Autism spectrum condition, Autistic spectrum
A lifelong difference in how a person communicates, relates to others and experiences the world. It is not an illness, and it is not caused by parenting or vaccines.
In Psychology
Autism is something a person is born with. Signs usually appear in the first two years, though some people, especially girls and adults, are recognised much later. It is a form of and varies enormously: some autistic people need daily support, others live independently.
Core features
- Differences in social communication — eye contact, conversation, reading others
- Strong preference for routine and distress when it changes
- Intense, focused interests and repetitive movements
- Over- or under-sensitivity to sound, light, touch or taste
There is no cure and none is needed; the aim is support — early speech, language and behavioural help, school adjustments, and treatment for anything that comes with it, such as or . Products sold as autism cures are not supported by evidence. The full article is autism.
Where this comes up
Psychology
Autism: early signs, diagnosis and support
Early signs of autism by age, the difference between a late talker and an autistic child, how diagnosis works, what support helps — and the 'cures' that harm.
27 Sept 202610 min read
Psychology
Tantrums and challenging behaviour in children
Tantrums are normal from about 18 months and fade by 4. What to do in the moment, how to prevent the next one, why smacking backfires, and when to get help.
27 Sept 20267 min read
Related terms
- NeurodivergenceNeurodivergent, NeurodiversityA descriptive term for a brain that develops or works differently from the typical, used especially for autism and ADHD. It comes from the neurodiversity movement and is not a medical diagnosis.
- ADHDAttention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorderAttention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a lifelong difference in how the brain manages attention, activity and impulses, usually noticed in childhood.
- Executive functionExecutive functions, Executive functioningThe mental skills that let us plan, focus, hold instructions in mind, switch between tasks and control impulses — the brain's air traffic control. Difficulties are central to ADHD.
- Anxiety disorderAnxiety disorders, AnxietyWorry or fear that is stronger than the situation calls for, lasts for weeks or months, and gets in the way of daily life. Anxiety disorders are common and treatable.