Hyperactivity / hyperkinesis - American Education

Two equally applicable designations for a syndrome that includes excessive, impulse-driven activity, short attention span, high distractibility, social immaturity, inappropriate lack of inhibitions and learning difficulties usually requiring special education. None of these symptoms by itself, including attention deficit disorder, is necessarily an indication of hyperactivity / hyperkinesis. Usually the result of a brain dysfunction, hyperactivity/hyperkinesis may be developmental and, therefore, temporary. If permanent, it requires long-term, individually prescribed educational and, perhaps, medical intervention. Regardless of the cause and treatment, hyperactivity / hyperkinesis is usually identifiable in early childhood, before the child begins school. If untreated, hyperactive / hyperkinetic children tend to be disruptive in class and other school routines.