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Are Boys More Likely to Exhibit Hyperactivity in ADHD Than Girls? 

Posted
Updated
ByMy Patient Advice
Author: Victoria Rowe, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Yes, gender and hyperactivity ADHD play a significant role in how symptoms are present. Boys are more often diagnosed with the hyperactive form of ADHD, while girls tend to show quieter symptoms. This difference in presentation contributes to boy’s vs girls ADHD trends and can result in distinct diagnosis trends between genders. 

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How Gender Differences Affect ADHD Presentation 

Research shows that boys are more noticeable in classrooms and social settings because of their impulsive and restless behaviour, which are key signs of hyperactivity. On the other hand, girls may demonstrate inattentiveness and internal restlessness, which can go unnoticed. Understanding these gender differences is crucial as they influence how and when ADHD is recognised and treated. 

Why Boys Often Show More Obvious Hyperactivity 

This is how boy’s vs girls ADHD often differs due to the presence or absence of hyperactivity: 

Higher Levels of Physical Restlessness

Boys with ADHD frequently display overt physical energy. They may run, climb, or fidget constantly. This leads to early referrals and diagnosis, while girls with more understated symptoms may be overlooked. 

Impulsivity and Disruptive Behaviour 

Boys are more likely to interrupt others, speak out impulsively, and break rules due to restlessness.Such behaviours draw attention from teachers and parents, accelerating diagnosis in boys compared with girls. 

Less Recognition of Quiet ADHD in Girls

Girls often show inattentive traits and minimal physical movement, which may be mistaken for being “shy” or “spaced out”. This can lead to later diagnosis in girls, reinforcing disparities in recognition and treatment due to gendered symptom expectations. 

Recognising gender and hyperactivity ADHD is essential for fair and balanced diagnosis in all children. 

For personal consultations on gender and hyperactivity of ADHD, visit providers like ADHD Certify. For a deeper dive into boys’ vs girls ADHD, understanding gender differences, and exploring current diagnosis trends, read our complete guide Hyperactivity. 

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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. 

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