Raising a Child with ADHD: How Constructive Praise Helps the ADHD Brain

“Sit still.” “Pay attention.” “Stop doing that.” These are some of the many phrases a child with ADHD, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, may hear throughout the day as they navigate school and home life. Due to the inattentiveness and lack of impulse control that ADHD causes, these children may hear nothing but corrections and complaints all day.

What’s often missing is constructive praise. The constant critiques on their behavior — which they often can’t fully control — can be very discouraging, and some may internalize these critiques and start to believe they are a “bad” kid. “A little recognition for a job well done means a lot to children with ADHD,” says Preeti Parikh, MD, Executive Medical Director of GoodRx and pediatrician at Mount Sinai Hospital.

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Written by:

Lauren Smith, MA

Lauren Smith, MA, has worked in health journalism since 2017. Before joining GoodRx, she was the senior health editor and writer for HealthiNation.

Reviewed by:

Brian Clista, MD

Dr. Clista is a board-certified pediatrician who works in private practice in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He previously served as a National Health Service Corporation Scholar in the inner city of Pittsburgh for 11 years.

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