30/03/2026
Children with ADHD grow up surrounded by a much higher rate of correction, criticism, and negative feedback due to their perceived “behaviour issues”. Scientists believe it’s 3 times more negative experiences than neurotypical children although it’s super hard to quantify!
Over time, these negative interactions build.
It can shape how they see themselves:
“I’m always getting it wrong.”
“I’m too much.”
“I’m not good enough.”
By the time they reach adulthood, those repeated moments can turn into chronic self-doubt, self esteem issues, anxiety, people-pleasing, or a fear of failure — not because they lack ability, but because of what they’ve learned to believe about themselves.
They can develop into trauma responses in adulthood like addictions, avoidant behaviour, rejection sensitivity dysphoria and challenges building relationships or holding down employment.
But here’s where things can change.
When caregivers and educators understand ADHD — not just what it looks like, but why it happens — behaviour stops being seen as “bad” and starts being seen as communication.
Impulsivity becomes a lag in regulation.
Inattention becomes a difference in focus, not a lack of care.
Emotional outbursts become overwhelm, not defiance.
That shift in understanding allows for a powerful reframe:
From “What’s wrong with this child?”
To “What does this child need right now?”
And that changes everything.
Because when children experience more patience than punishment, more curiosity than criticism, and more support than shame — they don’t just behave differently.
They grow up believing they are capable, understood, and worthy.
And that belief lasts a lifetime.
KNOWLEDGE OF ADHD IS KEY to supporting people and making this change.
If you’d like to know more about the Science of ADHD please join me for a 1hr educational talk.
On-line session - Wed 1st April 7pm
https://www.trybooking.com/uk/GDOY
Newcastle u Lyme - Wed 8th April 7pm
https://www.trybooking.com/uk/FYYH
Wolverhampton - Mon 13th April 7pm
https://www.trybooking.com/uk/GDIF
Nantwich - Tue 12th May 7pm
https://www.trybooking.com/uk/GDIJ