ADHD in Girls: Why It’s Often Missed

drphcampbell
Aug 29
2 min read

Land O’ Lakes Pediatric Neuropsychologist Explains Inattentive ADHD in GirlsGrow Neuropsychology | Neuropsychological Evaluations for ADHD & Learning Disorders

When people think of ADHD in children, they often imagine a boy bouncing off the walls or constantly interrupting in class. But ADHD in girls often looks very different—quiet, distracted, emotional—and frequently goes undiagnosed.

At Grow Neuropsychology, we specialize in pediatric neuropsychological evaluations that help uncover subtle signs of ADHD in girls. Many families come to us after being told, “She’s just shy,” or “She’ll grow out of it.”

Here’s what parents need to know.

What Does ADHD Look Like in Girls?

Girls are more likely to have ADHD – Predominantly Inattentive Type, which means they may not show the classic hyperactivity or impulsivity. Instead, symptoms may include:

Difficulty paying attention in class
Daydreaming or “zoning out” frequently
Forgetting instructions or assignments
Trouble staying organized
Appearing anxious or overly emotional

These symptoms are often mistaken for anxiety, immaturity, or personality traits, especially when grades are average or above.

Why ADHD in Girls Is Often Missed

Girls with ADHD often mask their challenges to fit in socially or meet adult expectations. While they may look like they’re “doing fine” at school, they might:

Melt down at home from exhaustion
Struggle to complete homework without support
Constantly feel behind or overwhelmed
Experience low self-esteem or perfectionism

Without support, these girls are at risk for anxiety, depression, and burnout as academic and social demands increase.

When to Consider an ADHD Evaluation for Your Daughter

Even if your child is doing okay in school, it’s worth considering an evaluation if you notice:

Persistent forgetfulness, disorganization, or time-blindness
Avoidance of tasks that require focus or effort
Emotional outbursts tied to academic stress
Social difficulties or increased sensitivity
Trouble with motivation or follow-through

At Grow Neuropsychology, we conduct comprehensive ADHD evaluations that go beyond a checklist. We assess executive functioning, attention, emotional regulation, learning skills, and more to understand the full picture.

How a Neuropsychological Evaluation Helps Girls with ADHD

A quality evaluation provides:

Clarity on how your child thinks, learns, and processes information
Diagnosis of ADHD, learning disabilities, anxiety, or other concerns
Recommendations for school accommodations (IEP, 504 Plans)
Strategies for executive function support and emotional regulation

Girls who receive the right diagnosis and support early can thrive—academically, socially, and emotionally.

Get Answers. Get Support. Grow with Confidence.

If you're wondering whether your daughter may have ADHD, especially inattentive ADHD, we’re here to help. Early identification empowers families with the tools they need to support their child.

🧠 Grow Neuropsychology – Land O’ Lakes, FL

🔍 Pediatric neuropsychological evaluations for ADHD, learning disabilities, and complex developmental concerns🌐