How “bad behavior” may signal anxiety in kids with ADHD

Many kids with ADHD also deal with anxiety. Together, this can end up looking like defiance, avoidance, or just acting out at school. 

In this episode, we’re breaking down what’s really going on behind these behaviors. And we share practical ways that parents can support their kids — at home and at school — through clear communication, behavior plans, and strategies that actually work.

For more on this topic: 

• Listen: How can you help an anxious child
• Read: 6 things I wish I’d known about my son’s anxiety
• Download: Anxiety tracker for kids

Timestamps:  

(05:40) Why teachers misinterpret ADHD behavior as defiance

(10:30) Behavior is communication: Decoding what kids are really saying

(16:00) How behavior intervention plans (BIPs) support kids with ADHD

(22:30) Motivating kids: Rewards, buy-in, and real-world success

For a transcript and more resources, visit the episode page on Understood.org. We love hearing from our listeners! Email us at opportunitygap@understood.org.

Understood.org is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people with learning and thinking differences, like ADHD and dyslexia. If you want to help us continue this work, donate at understood.org/give

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