Inattention in Children and Its Impact on School Performance
Inattention is a common concern among parents and educators when it comes to children’s school performance. Defined by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) as a significant difficulty in sustaining focus, listening, or following through with tasks, inattention can severely impede a child’s learning journey and overall development. The classic reference, Synopsis of Psychiatry, emphasizes that children with chronic inattention often struggle to meet academic expectations, leading to frustration, low self-esteem, and conflict in school. Addressing this early is essential for a child's academic and emotional success, something emphasized at any comprehensive psychological wellness clinic . Prevalence of Inattention •Estimated to affect around 5-10% of school-aged children. •Often associated with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), though not exclusively. •Occurs more frequently in boys than in girls, according to the Synopsis of Psychiatry. Symptoms of Inattention