ABSTRACT
Parents and nursery staff often use the term ‘hyperactive’ to describe children who are very lively or restless. It is a term that has been used rather loosely to describe a number of behaviours that include restlessness, inattentiveness, excitability, overactivity, impulsiveness, fidgetiness, distractibility, and disruptiveness (Taylor 1985a). There has been a lot of confusion over the terminology used about overactivity and hyperactivity and so it is helpful to distinguish between the different terms used (Taylor 1986a). There is a vast literature about this topic and the problems of attempting to define discrete categories of behaviour. Clear diagnosis is important in determining the best form of treatment for the condition. Taylor (1985b) has presented the following definitions:
1 Overactivity refers to an excess of physical movements. The child moves about more than the average child, may have fidgety movements, or may have difficulty in sitting down for any significant period of time. Despite being lively, these children will often have good concentration when they do pay attention. In general, they are vigorous and energetic children but sometimes the high level of activity is generated by agitation and anxiety. Occasionally they are described as non-compliant children as they will refuse to sit down when told to stay in one place. The behaviour is often not a problem to the child but is irritating and exhausting for the adults.
