Why Are ADHD Girls Often Missed in US Schools? 

ADHD girls underdiagnosed in the US is a significant issue, with many young girls failing to receive the appropriate diagnosis and support for their condition. While ADHD is commonly associated with hyperactive behaviours, ADHD in girls often presents differently. Many girls display the inattentive type of ADHD, which tends to be more subtle and can easily be overlooked in school environments. As a result, ADHD in girls is frequently missed, leaving them without the help they need to succeed academically and socially. 

Factors Contributing to the Underdiagnosis of ADHD in Girls 

In US schools, ADHD girls underdiagnosed is partly due to the way ADHD manifests differently in girls compared to boys. While boys with ADHD are often more outwardly hyperactive, girls are more likely to exhibit the inattentive type. This can include behaviours such as daydreaming, difficulty staying focused, and disorganisation. Because these symptoms are less disruptive, they often don’t attract the same attention from teachers or parents, which contributes to the underdiagnosis. 

Additionally, masking is a common coping strategy used by many girls with ADHD. Girls often develop the ability to hide their symptoms by mimicking the behaviours of their peers or working harder to compensate for their struggles. This can make the symptoms of ADHD less obvious, further contributing to the lack of recognition and appropriate diagnosis. School bias may also play a role, with teachers and parents sometimes perceiving girls as less likely to have ADHD, especially if their symptoms are not as outwardly visible. This leads to hidden symptoms of ADHD, which are harder to detect but still affect a girl’s ability to thrive in school. 

Key Factors in the Underdiagnosis of ADHD in Girls 

Inattentive Type 

Girls with ADHD often display the inattentive type, which involves daydreaming and forgetfulness rather than hyperactivity. These symptoms are less noticeable in the classroom, making it easier for ADHD to go unnoticed. 

Masking 

 Many girls with ADHD learn to mask their symptoms by imitating their peers or working harder to cover up their struggles. This can delay diagnosis, as the symptoms are hidden behind a facade of normalcy. 

Hidden Symptoms 

The hidden symptoms of ADHD, such as chronic disorganisation, difficulty focusing, and forgetfulness, can be overlooked because they are not as disruptive as hyperactive behaviours. These hidden symptoms are still significantly impactful, affecting academic performance and social interactions. 

School Bias 

 Teachers may unconsciously attribute ADHD symptoms to other causes, particularly in girls, where expectations may lean toward quieter or more socially compliant behaviours. This bias can lead to the underdiagnosis of ADHD in girls. 

For personal consultations on ADHD, visit providers like ADHD Certify. For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to ADHD in different cultural contexts.