Is Your Child's Poor Academic Performance a Sign of a Mental Disorder?

Are you being lazy and playful? Or is there an underlying issue?

My child is already 20 years old and is attending university, but his academic performance is very poor.
He hardly studies, and as a result, he does not do well on exams.
I have told him that in college, it is essential to read; just attending lectures is not enough.
However, his response is always that he knows he should read, but he just can't focus.
He feels sleepy after reading just a couple of lines, and even when he forces himself to read for two hours, he doesn't retain anything.
Yet, when he plays on the computer, he shows no signs of fatigue and can play for hours without a problem.
This seems to be a typical behavior of a child who simply does not enjoy studying.
However, I have recently learned some medical knowledge indicating that many behaviors previously thought to be personal issues may actually be treatable or correctable mental health disorders.
I recall that he has never been able to settle down to read since he was young.
Even with children's literature, such as "Robinson Crusoe," he would read but very quickly.
After all, those types of books do not require deep understanding, so he had no problem with them.
As he grew older, he also read Jin Yong's novels.
However, when it comes to textbooks that require critical thinking and comprehension, he claims he can't continue.
Additionally, when he plays PC games, his mouse-clicking speed is incredibly fast, seemingly without any thought.
I just want to know if there is a specific mental health disorder that could manifest in this way?

Lao Mi Hu, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/11/12

Dr. Zhang Jiafen reply Psychiatry

Hello, it sounds like your child may be inclined towards what is known as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
Children with ADHD can focus and complete tasks that interest them, which often leads to misunderstandings where they are perceived as disobedient or intentionally defying authority.
However, their behavioral challenges are often due to an inability rather than a refusal to comply, especially if they have not received appropriate support.

To diagnose ADHD, it is not sufficient to rely solely on one or two visits to a mental health clinic; it requires information from parents and those who have had long-term interactions with the child.
If ADHD is indeed present, the response to medication can be over 80% effective.
Additionally, when combined with behavioral therapy and counseling, the outcomes can be even better and more lasting.

So, while you may be worried, try not to stress too much.
It may help to understand that your child is not choosing to be unfocused, but rather is struggling to do so.
Encouraging your child to seek appropriate medical assistance can be beneficial.
Wishing you peace and joy.

Reply Date: 2012/11/12

More Info

Your concerns about your child's academic performance and potential underlying mental health issues are valid and deserve careful consideration. It sounds like your child is experiencing significant difficulties with concentration and motivation, particularly when it comes to academic tasks. This situation can indeed be indicative of various mental health conditions, including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), anxiety disorders, or even depression.

ADHD is characterized by symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Children and young adults with ADHD often struggle to focus on tasks that require sustained mental effort, such as studying or reading textbooks. They may find it easy to engage in activities that they find stimulating or enjoyable, such as playing video games, which can lead to a stark contrast in their ability to concentrate on academic work versus leisure activities. This could explain why your child can play computer games for hours without feeling tired but struggles to read academic material.

In addition to ADHD, anxiety can also manifest as difficulty concentrating. If your child feels overwhelmed by the pressure of academic performance or has anxiety about exams, this can lead to avoidance behaviors, such as procrastination or disengagement from studying. Symptoms of anxiety can include restlessness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and irritability, which could further complicate your child's academic performance.

Depression is another factor to consider. Symptoms of depression can include a lack of motivation, feelings of hopelessness, and difficulty concentrating. If your child feels disinterested in their studies or has a pervasive sense of fatigue, this could be a sign of underlying depression.
Given your child's history of difficulty focusing on reading materials, it may be beneficial to seek a comprehensive psychological evaluation. A mental health professional can assess for ADHD, anxiety, depression, or other potential disorders that could be impacting your child's academic performance. This evaluation may include standardized tests, interviews, and questionnaires to gather a complete picture of your child's cognitive and emotional functioning.

If a mental health condition is diagnosed, there are various treatment options available. These may include behavioral therapy, medication, or a combination of both. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be particularly effective for addressing issues related to anxiety and depression, while medication can help manage symptoms of ADHD. Additionally, academic accommodations, such as extended time for tests or the use of assistive technology, can also be beneficial in supporting your child's learning needs.

It's important to approach this situation with empathy and understanding. Encourage your child to express their feelings and concerns, and reassure them that seeking help is a positive step towards improving their academic performance and overall well-being. Open communication with your child about their struggles can help reduce feelings of isolation and shame, making it easier for them to engage in the process of seeking help.

In conclusion, your child's academic difficulties may indeed be linked to a mental health condition, and seeking a professional evaluation is a crucial step in understanding and addressing these challenges. With the right support and interventions, your child can develop effective strategies to improve their academic performance and overall mental health.

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