Is ADHD Genetic?

What Is ADHD?

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a complex mental health condition that impacts attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Depending on the type of ADHD, completing simple tasks, following directions, focusing, and sitting still can seem like extreme challenges.¹ A person may experience inattentive, hyperactive, or combined ADHD.

The inattentive symptoms of ADHD include:

• Struggling to pay attention
• Distractibility
• Making simple mistakes
• Being forgetful and often losing things
• Avoiding tasks that are time-consuming or not stimulating
• Failing to listen to instructions
• Appearing disorganized

The hyperactive symptoms of ADHD include:

• Being unable to sit still
• Talking excessively
• Interrupting and struggling to take turns
• Acting impulsively
• Engaging in risky activities

Is ADHD Genetic?

Evidence suggests that ADHD is genetic. Studies show people with ADHD tend to have relatives with the condition, meaning that ADHD runs in families.² Though the relationship between ADHD and genetics is strong, not every parent with ADHD will pass the condition to their children.³ For example, only about 33% of fathers with ADHD will see ADHD in their child.³

Recent evidence found several genes interact with ADHD, but none seem to control a large portion of the condition.² Therefore, while heredity plays a role in the development of ADHD, other factors are also at play.

Other Possible Causes of ADHD

Genetic and hereditary factors influence the presentation of ADHD. However, they are not totally responsible for the disorder. If you wonder, “Is ADHD hereditary,” understand that brain structure, early development, life experiences, and exposure to toxins can also impact the onset of symptoms.³

Brain Functioning & Structure

Researchers have found evidence suggesting the prefrontal cortex matures at a slower rate in children with ADHD. This part of the brain, along with the hippocampus, amygdala, and cerebellum, may also be smaller in volume. These areas affect executive function and emotional regulation, possibly explaining deficits in these skills for those with ADHD.⁴

Pregnancy & Birth

Some case-control studies indicate a potential relationship between maternal stress during pregnancy and ADHD. A relationship does not mean inherent causation. However, researchers have found certain risk factors that may exacerbate the chance of developing ADHD. For example, children whose mothers consume alcohol during pregnancy are 1.5x more likely to have ADHD than children whose mothers abstained.⁵

Pregnancy and birth-related factors contributing to ADHD may include:

• Low birth weight
• Exposure to toxins
• Exposure to toxins (such as lead)
• Tobacco use during pregnancy
• Maternal metabolic syndrome
• Delivery via C-section
• Head injuries during birth

Environment

Environment plays a significant role in the development of ADHD. For example, experiencing traumatic events, abuse, and constant change in childhood may lead to or exacerbate dormant symptoms of ADHD. Still, while these factors can be influential, they do not always cause ADHD.

Environmental factors linked to higher rates of ADHD include:⁶

• A history of abuse and neglect: Children with histories of abuse and neglect may be more likely to meet the criteria for ADHD than children who do not experience these factors in early childhood.
• Displacement: There is a relationship between displacement from the family home at a young age and developing ADHD later in life.
• Exposure to toxins: Lead, bisphenol A (BPA), and phthalates are associated with ADHD.

Traumatic Brain Injury

Research shows people who experience traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) have higher rates of ADHD. Researchers do not understand why this happens, but which parts of the brain are most affected after the injury likely play a role.⁷

Cultural & Societal Factors

Although ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition, certain cultural and social factors may play a role in distinguishing symptoms and accessing care. For example, until recent years, most people perceived ADHD as a problem that only affected young, white boys. Due to increased awareness, current diagnostic rates of ADHD are higher.

What Doesn’t Cause ADHD

Despite some popular and prevailing myths, research shows watching TV, spending time with people who have ADHD, parenting styles, or consuming sugar does not cause ADHD. Experiencing ADHD is also not a choice. In other words, people do not choose to develop symptoms of hyperactivity, poor impulse control, concentration issues, or restlessness.

Parenting Practices

At present, evidence does not establish a link between parenting styles and ADHD. What experts do know is that the way parents interact with their children with ADHD can impact the way symptoms present. Additionally, certain parenting patterns can encourage the development of secondary behavioral and conduct issues.⁶

Nutrition & Diet

There are no conclusive studies indicating that ADHD is a result of dietary choices or nutrition. However, many people with ADHD experience food sensitivities. Likewise, certain foods may exacerbate ADHD symptoms, and some people find that eliminating these trigger foods supports overall food regulation. That said, no diet is a cure for ADHD.

Stress

ADHD is co-morbid with many anxiety disorders, and those with ADHD may report higher levels of stress than those without the condition. However, stress is not inherently a cause of ADHD. With that, individuals with ADHD need to be aware of the impact that unregulated stress can have on their overall mental health.

Video Games

There was once a prevailing myth that gaming caused ADHD. However, evidence does not suggest this belief. On the other hand, people with ADHD may be more likely to play video games, possibly due to coinciding hyperfocus and dopamine spikes.

Vaccines

Evidence does not support the concept that vaccines cause ADHD, despite common parental concerns. One researcher linked childhood vaccines to autism, but he misrepresented his data.

Lack of Resources

Some studies show a lack of financial or emotional resources causes neurodivergence. However, people are likely born with or develop ADHD from a young age. With that, most research on ADHD points to genetics, not environmental factors.

Can ADHD Be Passed Down to Children?

Based on everything experts know about ADHD and heredity, passing ADHD on to your child is likely. Still, determining if a child will have ADHD is impossible, seeing as so many factors influence onset.

Having a child with ADHD may seem daunting. But, as a parent with ADHD, you can better understand the unique experiences and challenges your child will encounter. With this information, you can help them explore ways to manage their symptoms from a helpful perspective. You can also assist with treatment options by establishing routines and schedules. The interventions you found useful could also benefit your child.

Can ADHD Be Cured?

ADHD is a lifelong condition that cannot be cured. People used to see ADHD as a condition one would “grow out of.” Instead, we now know the diagnosis can change over time. Those who seek treatment can learn to cope with and manage their symptoms.

Support & Treatment For ADHD

The best treatments for ADHD typically involve a combination of behavioral therapy and medication management. Treating the condition in these ways gives individuals the biological and psychological assistance they need to improve their daily lives.

Finding a neurodiversity-affirming therapist can be challenging, but you can request a referral from a healthcare provider or loved one. An online therapist directory is another option, and you can sort by specialty and insurance coverage. People may explore ways to combine several therapy approaches to find the best fit for their situation and needs.

Treatment for ADHD may include:

• Stimulants: Stimulants are the most commonly prescribed form of ADHD medication. These prescriptions work by increasing dopamine levels and activating underactive parts of the brain.
• Non-stimulants: These medications can help symptoms by targeting other brain chemicals. Non-stimulants can take longer to work but are good alternatives for those who react negatively to traditional stimulants.
• Behavioral therapy: Behavioral therapy teaches family members how to support their kids in a healthy and affirmative environment.
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT for ADHD teaches people the relationship between their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Changing negative thoughts can lead to better lifestyle choices and improved emotional well-being.
• Family therapy: Family therapy can help entire family systems cope with an ADHD diagnosis and provide meaningful support to one another.