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Are Children with ADHD More Likely to Interrupt Others During Conversations? 

Children with ADHD often find it difficult to control impulsive behaviours, and this can lead to frequent interruptions during conversations. This common aspect of ADHD and interrupting occurs because conversation habits are influenced by challenges in regulating attention and impulses. The impulsivity that is characteristic of ADHD and interrupting can cause children to speak out of turn, often before the other person has finished speaking. This behaviour can be misunderstood by peers and adults, which may result in social challenges and frustrations. 

How It Helps 

To improve conversation habits in children with ADHD, interventions such as behavioural therapy can be highly beneficial. These therapies can help children develop strategies to control their impulses, wait their turn and listen more attentively. Teaching children with ADHD specific techniques, such as raising their hand or waiting for a pause before speaking, can significantly reduce social interruptions. Additionally, positive reinforcement for practising good listening skills and participating in conversations without interruption can help solidify these behaviours. 

With the right support and strategies in place, children with ADHD and interrupting can learn to engage in conversations more effectively and improve their social interactions. Encouraging self-awareness and providing consistent feedback can go a long way in helping children develop healthier conversation habits. 

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert advice tailored to your needs.   

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Clinical interviews and History Taking. 

Harriet Winslow, BSc - My patient advice author - mypatientadvice.co.uk

Harriet Winslow, BSc

Author

Harriet Winslow is a clinical psychologist with a Bachelor’s in Clinical Psychology and extensive experience in behaviour therapy and developmental disorders. She has worked with children and adolescents with ADHD, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), learning disabilities, and behavioural challenges, providing individual and group therapy using evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT. Dr. Winslow has developed and implemented personalised treatment plans, conducted formal and informal assessments, and delivered crisis intervention for clients in need of urgent mental health care. Her expertise spans assessment, treatment planning, and behavioural intervention for both neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.

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, author and a reviewer for my patient advice - mypatientadvice.co.uk

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.