Gender differences in ADHD are a key issue in research into attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). One of the main problems in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD is the underdiagnosis and underestimation of symptoms. Studies show that ADHD is diagnosed and treated more frequently in men than in women. This discrepancy raises important questions about why women may be regularly overlooked and underdiagnosed. In this article, we explore the implications of gender differences in ADHD and the associated challenges in the context of ADHD diagnosis and ADHD treatment.
Why are there gender differences in ADHD?
The differences in the manifestation of the ADHD symptoms between men and women are increasingly the focus of research. Females may be systematically overlooked and underdiagnosed, in large part due to differences in ADHD expression between the sexes. Gender differences in ADHD thus directly influence the likelihood that women with ADHD will be correctly diagnosed.
According to an article in the “BMC Psychiatry Journal”, the research suggests that the ADHD symptoms tend to be externalized in men, whereas they are described as internalized in women. This difference in manifestation can complicate the diagnosis of ADHD, as the symptoms are less obvious and can easily be confused with other disorders. Therefore, it is important to recognize gender differences in the manifestation of ADHD symptoms carefully to ensure an accurate ADHD diagnosis and correct ADHD treatment. If you would like more information on ADHD diagnosis and what it means, visit the GAM Medical website.
ADHD in men
As mentioned above, previous scientific research refers to the ADHD symptoms in men and describe them as externalized. According to a scientific study published in 2020 in the online journal “Plos One”, men with ADHD can show hyperactivity, impulsivity, aggressiveness and difficulty controlling their behavior. In contrast to women, men with ADHD may have a greater awareness of their symptoms as the condition is diagnosed at a young age in most cases, making it easier to access ADHD treatments early. Gender differences in ADHD therefore play an important role in how differently the symptoms are experienced and managed.
ADHD in women
In contrast to men, the ADHD symptoms internalized in women have been described. According to the above study, women with ADHD often have attention problems and difficulty organizing, as well as a possible need for isolation, low self-esteem, and anxiety. These symptoms often appear in adolescence and early adulthood, which can delay diagnosis. They are often confused with anxiety disorders or depression, which can lead to a delay in ADHD diagnosis. Women with ADHD also develop coping strategies such as masking symptoms. Gender differences in ADHD therefore significantly affect the diagnosis and understanding of symptoms. If you think you have ADHD symptoms, GAM Medical can help you with ADHD diagnosis.
Effects of gender differences in ADHD
The consequences of differences in the manifestation of ADHD symptoms between males and females can be significant and affect various aspects of daily life and mental well-being for people with ADHD. The most important and significant consequences include:
- One of the most common strategies used by women with ADHD is masking. This approach allows women with ADHD to compensate for their ADHD symptoms or even hide them completely behind an apparent normality in order to meet certain social expectations.
On the other hand, men with ADHD may use “external” strategies, such as using technological devices or strictly structuring their time to improve focus and productivity.
Gender differences in ADHD represent a complex and significant mental health challenge. It is therefore important to recognize and understand these differences to ensure an accurate ADHD diagnosis. If you suspect you have ADHD symptoms, it may be helpful to contact GAM Medical, the online clinic that specializes in treatment of ADHD in adults, which will provide you with an accurate ADHD diagnosis. Understanding gender differences in ADHD is a crucial part of this process
The ADHD diagnosis is the first step in managing the disorder, and thanks to GAM Medical, you can better understand attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. To help you get an accurate ADHD diagnosis, GAM Medical divides this process into two phases. The first step is the psychological ADHD assessment, followed by a psychiatric ADHD assessment. These two phases of ADHD diagnosis are crucial, as it is necessary to thoroughly analyze the condition in order to obtain a personalized ADHD diagnosis, which then allows access to effective ADHD treatments. An accurate ADHD diagnosis is the beginning of a journey that can help you improve the quality of your life.
