Can ADHD Skip Generations Genetically?

PostedOctober 7, 2025

UpdatedOctober 10, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Victoria Rowe, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

ADHD inheritance patterns reveal that the condition is highly heritable, but not always straightforward in how it appears across family lines. One common question is whether ADHD can skip generations, and the answer is yes, it can. This is due to the complex nature of genetic transmission, where multiple genes and environmental factors interact to influence whether someone actually develops the condition.

How ADHD Inheritance Works

Unlike conditions caused by a single gene mutation, ADHD is polygenic, meaning it involves many genes working together. Some of these genes may be passed down quietly and remain inactive in one generation, only to become expressed in the next. This is why a grandparent, and a grandchild may both have ADHD, while the parent does not show significant symptoms. It is not that the parents did not inherit the risk; they may simply not have met the threshold for a diagnosis or may have milder traits that were never recognised.

Recessive Traits and Genetic Transmission

While ADHD is not a recessive disorder in the classic Mendelian sense, some of the traits that contribute to ADHD may behave in recessive-like ways. That is, both copies of a gene might need to carry risk variants for symptoms to manifest strongly. Family history is therefore critical, even if your parents were not diagnosed; a history of impulsivity, disorganisation, or inattention could still point to an inherited susceptibility.

Conclusion

ADHD inheritance patterns are complex, and yes, the condition can appear to skip generations. This highlights the importance of looking beyond immediate family when considering genetic transmission and seeking support.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations to better understand your family history and its role in ADHD.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Genetic studies and biomarkers.

Victoria Rowe, MSc

Author

Victoria Rowe is a health psychologist with a Master’s in Health Psychology and a BS in Applied Psychology. She has experience as a school psychologist, conducting behavioural assessments, developing individualized education plans (IEPs), and supporting children’s mental health. Dr. Rowe has contributed to peer-reviewed research on mental health, including studies on anxiety disorders and the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare systems. Skilled in SPSS, Minitab, and academic writing, she is committed to advancing psychological knowledge and promoting well-being through evidence-based practice.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.