&
 
 
   
       "Everybody is different -
     that is the joy of humanity"
   
   

What are Attention Disorders?

The frequency of children and adolescents being diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder (A.D.D.) or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (A.D.H.D.) is increasing. These young people are considered to be excessively impulsive, inattentive or hyperactive. Students are entering or soon will be entering the workplace with A.D.H.D.

It is rare for adults to be diagnosed with these specific conditions, but attention difficulties may be a problem for some adults and may overlay some of the other conditions we have mentioned.

The cause is thought to be a chemical imbalance and taking medication alleviates some severe conditions. Diet may also be part of the cause.

  
   
         
   
  It has been found that some attention problems in the workplace may also arise as a side-effect of medication that has been prescribed for another condition.

Possible weaknesses

  • Short or very focused attention span
  • Forgetfulness
  • Difficulty following instructions
  • Inappropriate social skills
  • No awareness of time
  • Disorganisation
  • May be confused by management/teaching styles therefore difficult to manage
  • Low self esteem

Potential Strengths

Individuals who learn to manage their symptoms can become successful in the workplace, offering specific skills of drive, energy and imagination to an employer.

  • Creative and imaginative
  • Resourceful, innovative and inventive
  • Energetic, spontaneous and full of ideas
  • Resilient
  • Good in a crisis, can think on their feet
  • Risk taker
  • Sensitive, empathetic, caring and helpful
  • Highly verbal
  • Often intelligent and humorous

People with attention differences may be found amongst:

  • The media
  • Entrepreneurs
  • The self-employed
  • People involved in high energy tasks
  • Craftsmen or women
  • Those in high concentration tasks, which may make them hyper-focused

You may think that the description above matches you, or someone you are close to. You may like to look at the section on which describes the steps you can follow to confirm any suspicions.

If you have already taken an assessment, you may be concerned about telling others - see the section on for why this could be a good step.

For sources of more information on Attention Disorders, please see our and pages.