Hyperactivity
Hyperactivity can be described as a state in which a person is abnormally easily excitable and exuberant. Strong
emotional reactions and a very short span of
attention are also typical for a hyperactive person. Some individuals may show these characteristics naturally, as
personality differs from person to person. Nonetheless, when hyperactivity starts to become serious and harmful to the person as well as others, it may be classified as a
medical disorder. The
slang term "
hyper" is used to describe someone who is in a hyperactive state.
It is often associated with organic disorders, such as
ADHD, and
autism and non-organic disorders, such as
caffeinism. Some may experience both autism and ADHD.
There was a great deal of
focuson
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder as a cause of hyperactivity. Other conditions can cause it as well. Normal young children can be very lively and have short attention spans. Normal teenagers can also appear hyperactive;
puberty can cause it. Children who are bored, are suffering from
mental conflict, or are having problems at home - which may even include sexual abuse - can be hyperactive. The disorder has a large range of affects on children. Some have
learning disabilities, while others may be very
gifted.
Hyperactivity can also occur because of problems with hearing or vision. Overactive
thyroid,
lead poisoning,
depression,
anxiety, and a range of psychiatric illnesses are some of the potential causes.
Hyperactivity is sometimes associated with
mania. Another more common cause of hyperactivity is lack of
sleep. More severe cases of hyperactivity can be very harmful if left untreated, since hyperactive people seldom think about the consequences of their actions.
Hyperactivity has also has been associated with artificial
food colourings such as
tartrazine.
A common belief is that eating too much
sugar will make a person hyperactive. This belief is especially prevalent amongst parents and teachers who claim that children's behavior often get more rowdy, excited and energetic after they eat too many sugary food and drinks (such as
candy or
soda). One particular study found that the perception by parents regarding their children's hyperactivity depended on their belief as to whether they had been given sugar. [
1]
Nevertheless, as mentioned above, artificial food colouring and caffeine in the sweets or sugary beverages consumed by children and many other people alike may be linked to hyperactivity.
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Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder*
Adult attention-deficit disorder*
List of fictional characters with ADHD*
Anti-psychiatry*
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and autism*
Symptom: HyperactivityExternal links
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Caffeinism's Mimicry of Mental Illness*
ScienceDaily Research News Latest research from around the world on ADHD and factors that contribute to hyperactivity.
