By Mohab Hanna, MD – Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist
ADHD doesn’t just affect academic performance; it also plays a significant role in a child’s social interactions. Children with ADHD may struggle to navigate relationships, often facing challenges in reading social cues, managing emotions, and maintaining friendships. At MedPsych Behavioral Health, we provide support to help children with ADHD build the skills they need to succeed socially.
Missing Social Cues and Misunderstandings
Children with ADHD often miss social cues, such as body language or tone of voice, because they are easily distracted or overwhelmed. They may interrupt conversations, talk excessively, or dominate playtime without realizing how their behavior affects others. These actions can lead to frustration or rejection from peers, making it difficult for children with ADHD to form lasting friendships. Our ADHD Treatment Services focus on improving emotional regulation and communication skills to help children navigate these challenges.
Impulsivity and Hyperactivity and Social Consequences
Impulsivity is another hallmark of ADHD that can affect social interactions. Children may act or speak without thinking, leading to conflicts or misunderstandings. For example, they might blurt out inappropriate comments or react physically, such as hitting or pushing, in response to frustration. These impulsive behaviors can isolate them from peers and contribute to a negative self-image over time.
Hyperactivity, common in younger children with ADHD, can also disrupt social settings. Constant movement or fidgeting may annoy classmates, while difficulty following rules during group activities can cause friction. As children grow older, hyperactivity may lessen, but difficulties with self-regulation and social awareness often persist.
Building Social Skills Through Support and Coaching
Teaching social skills is a key part of managing ADHD symptoms. Therapy can help children recognize social cues, understand the perspectives of others, and practice effective communication strategies. Parent coaching can also provide families with tools to reinforce these skills at home. MedPsych Behavioral Health offers Parent Coaching Services to support families in creating a nurturing and structured environment.
Managing Emotional Challenges in Friendships
The emotional challenges of ADHD, such as heightened sensitivity or quick frustration, can further complicate social interactions. Addressing these emotional responses through therapy helps children better handle setbacks and navigate the complexities of friendships.
Get Help for Your Child’s Social Struggles
If your child struggles with social interactions due to ADHD, MedPsych Behavioral Health is here to help. Contact us at [email protected] or call (201) 995-1004 to schedule an evaluation. MedPsych has four offices in northern New Jersey in Ramsey, Glen Rock, Old Tappan, and Montclair.
