How do peer relationships influence hyperactive behaviors in ADHD?

PostedAugust 25, 2025

UpdatedSeptember 5, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Victoria Rowe, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Peer relationships play a significant role in shaping the behaviours of children and teenagers with ADHD. Positive friendships can help improve self-esteem and self-control, while negative interactions can intensify impulsivity and hyperactivity.

Because ADHD often affects social skills, children may struggle to form or maintain friendships, leading to frustration and even more disruptive behaviour. Understanding the peer impact on hyperactivity is key to creating supportive environments for children to thrive.

How Peers Affect ADHD Behaviours

Here are some ways peer relationships influence hyperactivity in ADHD, and how to foster healthier interactions:

Modelling and Imitation

Children with ADHD may imitate the behaviours of their peers whether positive or negative. Encouraging friendships with positive role models can reduce disruptive behaviour.

Social Rejection and Isolation

Struggles with social skills can lead to teasing, rejection, or withdrawal, which can increase restlessness and acting out. Social skills training and group activities can help build confidence and connections.

Peer Pressure and Risk-Taking

To feel included, some children may take risks or act impulsively. Providing clear guidance and fostering supportive peer relationships can help reduce such behaviour.

Strengthening ADHD friendships and teaching effective social skills improves behaviour and overall well-being. Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and strategies to support your child’s development.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Hyperactivity.

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.