ASK Dr Devi Raj
ADHD & ATTENTION
Questions Parents Ask
"Ask Dr Devi Raj" - Knowledge Hub is a practical psychology knowledge library for parents, adolescents, adults and families looking for clear answers to common emotional, behavioural, developmental and parenting concerns.
Dr. Devi Raj is a Developmental Psychologist, Certified Life Coach and Child Behaviour Specialist with over 15 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and families. At Pranaah Psychological Counselling Centre, she provides evidence-based psychological assessments, parenting guidance, developmental interventions, and emotional wellbeing services for families across Kollam, Karunagappally, Kerala, and through online consultations worldwide.
Disclaimer
This content is intended for general educational information and does not replace individual psychological assessment, diagnosis, medical advice or emergency care.
"Ask Dr Devi Raj" - Knowledge Hub
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SELF-ESTEEM & CONFIDENCE
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FRIENDSHIPS & SOCIAL SKILLS
13
BULLYING
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SCREEN TIME & DIGITAL LIFE
15
SLEEP
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NRI & EXPATRIATE PARENTING
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NRI ADULT WELLBEING
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MARRIAGE & FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS
ADHD & ATTENTION Questions Parents Ask
“Ask Dr. Devi Raj” is a practical psychology knowledge library for parents, adolescents, adults and families looking for clear answers to common emotional, behavioural, developmental and parenting concerns.
The answers are educational and should not be used as a substitute for individual psychological assessment, diagnosis, medical advice or emergency support.
1. How do I know if my child has ADHD?
ADHD involves persistent difficulties with attention, impulsivity and/or hyperactivity that significantly affect functioning across more than one setting.
2. Is every active child hyperactive?
No. High energy alone does not mean ADHD.
3. Why can my child focus on games but not homework?
Highly stimulating activities provide immediate rewards. ADHD affects regulation of attention rather than the complete inability to concentrate.
4. Is ADHD caused by bad parenting?
No. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition. Parenting style can influence how symptoms are managed but does not simply cause ADHD.
5. Can girls have ADHD?
Yes. Girls may show more inattentive symptoms and can therefore be overlooked.
6. Why does my child forget instructions immediately?
Working-memory difficulties, distraction, stress or attention problems can make multi-step instructions difficult.
7. Does ADHD affect emotions?
Many children with ADHD also struggle with frustration tolerance and emotional regulation.
8. Can ADHD affect friendships?
Yes. Impulsivity, interrupting, difficulty taking turns or emotional reactions can sometimes affect peer relationships.
9. Should ADHD be assessed only through a questionnaire?
No. A comprehensive assessment should include developmental history, behaviour across settings, parent and teacher information and relevant clinical evaluation.
10. Can children with ADHD succeed academically?
Absolutely. Appropriate support, structure and understanding can help children use their strengths effectively.
