Can ADHD symptoms be mistaken for other developmental issues in preterm children?

PostedAugust 20, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 4, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

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

Indeed, ADHD is mistaken for developmental issues and is a common challenge, especially in preterm children. Particularly in cases of premature birth, the symptoms of ADHD are easily mistaken for those of other developmental disorders. Premature birth often leads to developmental delays and unique behavioural traits, which may overlap with ADHD signs, making diagnosis more complex.

Preterm children often face a variety of developmental challenges, including speech delays, social difficulties, and motor coordination problems. These may cause misdiagnosis because they can resemble some of the symptoms of ADHD. To make sure children get the help they need, it’s critical for medical professionals to differentiate ADHD from other developmental disorders.

Common Developmental Issues Mistaken for ADHD

Misdiagnosis can be prevented by understanding the distinctions between ADHD signs and other developmental difficulties in preterm children.

Speech and language delays

Preterm children may have delays in speech and language development, which can affect their ability to follow instructions and communicate. This can sometimes appear as inattention or hyperactivity, both common signs of ADHD.

Motor coordination difficulties

Children born prematurely may struggle with motor skills such as balance, coordination, or fine motor control. These issues can result in fidgeting or restlessness, which are also key ADHD symptoms.

Social and emotional delays

Preterm children might experience difficulties in social situations or have trouble regulating their emotions. These struggles can look like impulsivity or emotional outbursts, leading to confusion with ADHD.

Early and thorough assessments are crucial in distinguishing between ADHD mistaken as developmental issues and other developmental delays, ensuring that the child gets the appropriate 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.