Which age group is most commonly affected by attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is most commonly diagnosed in school-age children, particularly between the ages of 6 and 12. This age group represents a critical point for observing the symptoms of ADHD, as children are in structured environments like schools where attention and behavior are consistently monitored. It is during these formative years that the challenges of maintaining focus, controlling impulses, and regulating activity levels become more apparent, often leading to a formal diagnosis.

The identification of ADHD typically occurs when children face difficulties in academic settings, where their symptoms can disrupt learning and social interactions. Diagnosis in early childhood is less common, as many behaviors such as inattention and hyperactivity can be typical in younger children and do not meet the criteria for ADHD until later developmental stages. As children transition into adolescence and young adulthood, some may exhibit symptoms that were observed earlier, but by then, many individuals with ADHD have been identified and are receiving treatment or interventions. Thus, the school-age years are critical for recognition and management of ADHD, making this age group the most affected.