Expert: Christine D. DeLoatch, MA CCC-SLP - 8/12/2007

Question
Hi there, I have a 15 year old son who is a golfer. In practice he shoots lights out and averages 79 but in competition he cannot stay focused for a complete round and averages 89-92. He does good in school but around the house he could be called lazy or a person who takes forever in getting something done. Can a child be ADD only in lack of focus. I have been to a sports psychologist and he says he could be borderline. All I know is that he does well when nothing is on the line...thanks..

Answer
Dear Mike,

Thanks for asking me your question.  The real question is what could be causing the difference between high demand tasks and low demand tasks that are also high interest.  

Studies show that when children with ADHD are relaxed - and involved in high interest tasks their brains function in way they were designed to - using the frontal lobes which are designed to use judgement and discernment.  

When an individual is over-taxed - overwhelmed by too many chores to do, to much homework to do or the distractions & pressure of competing with others,  then we get a sort of brain drain.  The frontal lobes are not as active and other parts of the brain like those that control the eyes get energized - So instead of doing well in the golf game he may be looking around too much.  

You could try some simple grounding exercises or other types of stimulation.  I would suggest maybe chewing gum while playing golf.  He may find he is more focused and alert.  He can also try a grounding exercise like recording in his mind exactly what is going on with the golf game.  "It is almost my turn.  So-and-do it putting.  I am choosing the 9 iron," etc.  Two other things might also help - having him do some type of cardio-exercise like run a little just before golf - increasing the blood flow to the brain or just some deep breathing exercises.  Any of these things might result is a little improvement.  

I hope he is not too disappointed with himself when he has times of drifting focus.  He needs to learn to be gentle with himself.  

Many blessings to you.  I hope one of these or some of these strategies work.  

Christine.