Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, ADHD is a common childhood brain disorder. Symptoms include difficulty staying focused and paying attention, difficulty controlling behavior, and hyperactivity.

Behavioral therapy aims to help a child change his or her behavior. it might involve practical assistance, such as help organizing tasks or completing schoolwork, or working through emotion- ally difficult events. Behavioral therapy also teaches a child how to monitor his or her own behavior. learning to give oneself praise or rewards for acting in a desired way, such as controlling anger or thinking before acting, is another goal of behav- ioral therapy. Parents and teachers also can give positive or negative feedback for certain behaviors.

Physical therapists may teach children social skills, such as how to wait their turn, share toys, ask for help, or respond to teasing.

These children need guidance and understanding from their parents and teachers to reach their full potential and to succeed in school. Before a child is diagnosed, frustration, blame, and anger may have built up within a family. parents and children may need special help to overcome bad feelings. Psychologists can help parents understand ADHD.