Manjeet is inattentive, hyperactive and mostly impulsive. He is most likely to be diagnosed with __________.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4) → Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Option (1) Specific Learning Disorder — Incorrect. Here the child has difficulty in perceiving or processing information efficiently and accurately, and problems in basic skills of reading, writing or mathematics in the early school years. Manjeet’s problem is restlessness and poor attention, not a specific skill.
Option (2) Intellectual Deficiency — Incorrect. Intellectual disability is below average intellectual functioning (an IQ of about 70 or below) with deficits in adaptive behaviour, shown before the age of 18. The question says nothing about low intelligence.
Option (3) Autism Spectrum Disorder — Incorrect. It is marked by widespread impairments in social interaction and communication and stereotyped patterns of behaviour, interests and activities. Manjeet’s features are of attention and activity level, not of relating to people.
Option (4) Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder — Correct. The two main features of ADHD are inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. Inattentive children find it hard to sustain mental effort; impulsive children seem unable to control their immediate reactions; hyperactive children are always on the move. Manjeet shows all three.
NCERT (2025-26): “Neurodevelopmental Disorders … The two main features of ADHD are inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. Children who are inattentive find it difficult to sustain mental effort during work or play. They have a hard time keeping their minds on any one thing or in following instructions. Common complaints are that the child does not listen, cannot concentrate, does not follow instructions, is disorganised, easily distracted, forgetful, does not finish assignments, and is quick to lose interest in boring activities. Children who are impulsive seem unable to control their immediate reactions or to think before they act. They find it difficult to wait or take turns, have difficulty resisting immediate temptations or delaying gratification. Minor mishaps such as knocking things over are common whereas more serious accidents and injuries can also occur. Hyperactivity also takes many forms. Children with ADHD are in constant motion. Sitting still through a lesson is impossible for them.…” “…Autism Spectrum Disorder is characterised by widespread impairments in social interaction and communication skills, and stereotyped patterns of behaviours, interests and activities.…” “…Intellectual disability refers to below average intellectual functioning (with an IQ of approximately 70 or below), and deficits or impairments in adaptive behaviour (i.e. in the areas of communication, self-care, home living, social/interpersonal skills, functional academic skills, work, etc.) which are manifested before the age of 18 years.…” “In case of specific learning disorder, the individual experiences difficulty in perceiving or processing information efficiently and accurately.…” |