Causes of ADHD
The development of ADHD is influenced by a multitude of factors, but the disorder cannot be attributed to a single cause. It is believed that ADHD arises from the interaction of several factors.
Hereditary (genetic) predisposition plays an important role. Another known cause is an alteration in neurotransmitter transport in the brain. However, environmental influences and other biological causes are also being investigated and discussed.
ADHD arises from the interaction of genetic and neurobiological factors. Studies show that certain neurotransmitters in the brain—especially dopamine and norepinephrine—function differently in affected individuals. Activity in the frontal lobe, responsible for attention and impulse control, also differs measurably.
Altered sensory processing is another typical characteristic: many children with ADHD perceive stimuli differently or incompletely. For example, they may not hear everything, even if their hearing is intact—a phenomenon known as partial hearing. This often leads to misunderstandings: children want to participate, but they can't absorb everything at that moment.
ADHD is not a consequence of negligent parents or excessive screen use. Environmental factors, such as stress during pregnancy, premature birth, or difficult experiences in early childhood, can exacerbate symptoms, but they are not the cause.
It's important to understand that ADHD is a serious neurological disorder—not a matter of laziness or negligent parents.
The potentially complex interaction between genes, other biological factors, and environmental factors in the development of ADHD is not yet fully understood. However, it is known that environmental risks interact with genetic (risk) factors and vice versa.
Hereditary (genetic) predisposition
An important factor in the development of ADHD is genetic predisposition. Studies show that ADHD tends to be hereditary and can therefore be transmitted by parents. However, this is not always the case. There is no single gene responsible for the development of ADHD. However, certain genes can increase the risk of developing the disorder.
Changes in neurotransmitter transport in the brain
It is proven that, in ADHD, the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain is altered. In particular, a deficiency of dopamine – the so-called “happiness hormone” – can be detected in ADHD, specifically in areas of the brain that are also important for memory and learning functions.
Environmental influences and other biological causes
A multitude of other factors are being investigated in relation to the development and symptoms of ADHD. However, their importance is not yet sufficiently established. These include, for example, sensory overload combined with lack of exercise, alcohol and drug use during pregnancy, low birth weight or complications during childbirth, and certain foods, such as artificial colors and preservatives.
