Do premature babies show more inattentive or hyperactive symptoms?

PostedAugust 20, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 4, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Avery Lombardi, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Although research indicates that hyperactivity may be more prominent in premature babies, inattentive hyperactive preemies frequently exhibit a combination of attention and hyperactivity symptoms. Due to developmental differences brought by early birth, these children are more likely than full-term babies to exhibit both inattentive and hyperactive symptoms.

Premature birth disrupts critical stages of brain development, which can affect the areas of the brain responsible for attention, impulse control, and regulation of movement. As a result, attention in preemies may be more difficult to manage, with some children showing signs of hyperactivity earlier in life.

Common Behaviour Signs in Premature Babies

Understanding how ADHD symptoms may develop in preterm infants requires early behaviour signs recognition. Below are the common inattentive hyperactive preemies behaviours that may appear.

Hyperactivity

Premature babies are more likely to show signs of hyperactivity such as excessive movement, restlessness, or difficulty remaining still, especially during quiet activities or sleep times.

Inattention

Preemies may also have difficulty focusing on toys, people, or activities. They might seem easily distracted, and in older age, this can manifest as struggles with following instructions or staying engaged in tasks.

Impulsivity

Impulsivity in premature babies may involve reacting without thinking or being unable to wait for turns during playtime or social activities, often leading to challenges in peer interactions.

While inattentive hyperactive preemies may show mixed symptoms, early observation can help with effective management and intervention.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and tailored guidance.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to premature birth or low birth weight.

Avery Lombardi, MSc

Author

Avery Lombardi is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She has professional experience in psychological assessment, evidence-based therapy, and research, working with both child and adult populations. Avery has provided clinical services in hospital, educational, and community settings, delivering interventions such as CBT, DBT, and tailored treatment plans for conditions including anxiety, depression, and developmental disorders. She has also contributed to research on self-stigma, self-esteem, and medication adherence in psychotic patients, and has created educational content on ADHD, treatment options, and daily coping strategies.

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.