Researchers examine links between ADHD and academic performance

By Staff Writer

A new survey reveals that different factors contribute to academic underachievement among children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

The report, which appears in the journal Psychological Science, reveals that genetics and environment - such as one's home and school - affect children with ADHD in different ways, depending on the school subject. Researchers found that genetics were linked more to a child's struggles in reading, while an environment was closely associated with their math problems.

Experts based their findings on an examination of 271 pairs of 10-year old identical and fraternal twins. The study measured the severity of two common ADHD symptoms, inattention and hyperactivity, by questioning mothers about their children's behaviors. In addition, researchers tested the kids' reading and mathematics skills.

Based on the results, they concluded that genetics played a bigger role in ADHD symptoms that affected their reading abilities, while the environment was responsible for increase of symptoms during math-related tasks.

Children with developmental problems may benefit from summer camps for kids. These programs offer activities that can help students improve their academic performance.