ADHD, officially known as Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurological-based  developmental disability characterized by inattention, impulsivity, and sometimes hyperactivity which could possibly lead to lifelong problems.

Students with ADHD may have difficulty in the following areas in forms that could  be mild, moderate, or severe 

• concentrating
  
• listening
  
• starting/organizing and completing tasks
  
• following directions
  
• making transitions
  
• interacting with others
  
• producing work at a consistently normal level
  
• organizing problems that involve multiple steps

Characteristics of ADHD in Traditional/Non-traditional Age College Students

Freshmen students with ADHD may demonstrate a great deal of anxiety related to increased expectations at the postsecondary level.

The significant maturational lag (of up to three years) found in students with ADHD may compromise their transition to the college environment and adjustment (Barkley 1993).

After years of "special" education, some students may wish to leave their disability behind by denying a need for continued support (Leonard 1994).

Some externalize frustration and blame problems on faculty or advisors. Others may take it out on themselves in a manner that results in feelings of anger and/or depression.

Students who have not gained insight about the symptoms of their disability, may struggle with unrecognized transition issues by finding fault and reacting angrily to every challenging situation.

Students who were either "bright enough", or had "good enough social skills" to compensate for their deficits at the elementary and secondary levels, and did not misbehave or fall two-three years below grade level have frequently gone unidentified until they "hit the wall" of academics or adjustment at college.