Which subtype of ADHD is most common in girls?

Inattention is the most common subtype of ADHD observed in girls. This subtype primarily manifests as difficulties in maintaining focus, forgetfulness, disorganization, or being easily distracted. While boys are more frequently diagnosed with ADHD overall, girls often exhibit less overt symptoms and may struggle more with inattention, which can lead to being overlooked or misdiagnosed.

The reasons behind this trend can include social and societal expectations, as girls may feel pressure to present themselves in a more composed manner, masking their symptoms. They might also be more adept at developing coping strategies to deal with inattentiveness, which can contribute to a less obvious presentation of ADHD compared to boys.

In contrast, hyperactivity, impulsivity, and combined types tend to manifest more prominently in boys. Hyperactive behaviors are often more noticeable and disruptive, garnering more immediate attention from caregivers and educators, which may contribute to the higher rates of these diagnoses in males. This distinction highlights the importance of understanding how ADHD can present differently across genders.