Understanding ADHD in Girls & Women
For decades, ADHD research focused primarily on boys.
As a result, many girls and women went unnoticed, misunderstood, or misdiagnosed.
In this special presentation, internationally recognized ADHD researcher Dr. Stephen Hinshaw explores how ADHD presents differently in girls and women, why it is often overlooked, and what families and educators can do to better support these learners.
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Understanding ADHD in women and girls
Watch the Full Presentation
RUNTIME: 99 MINUTES | PRESENTED MARCH 2026 | HOSTED BY THE CRAIG SCHOOL
Key Insights from the Presentation
ADHD Often Looks Different in Girls
Many girls experience symptoms that are less disruptive and more internalized, making identification more difficult.
Bright Students Can Still Struggle
Intelligence often masks challenges related to attention, organization, planning, and self-regulation.
Executive Function Matters
Difficulties with working memory, planning, task initiation, and emotional regulation can impact daily life at home and school.
Early Support Changes Outcomes
Recognition and support can significantly improve confidence, academic success, and long-term well-being.
Dr. Stephen Hinshaw
Dr. Stephen P. Hinshaw is an internationally recognized clinical psychologist and Distinguished Professor of Psychology at the University of California, Berkeley. He is a leading expert on ADHD, with a particular focus on girls and women. His research has garnered top awards worldwide in clinical psychology, applied psychological research, basic psychological research, child development, child and adolescent psychiatry, international mental health, and ADHD; he is the only individual with such acclaim in all seven areas. He is an elected fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.
His research career includes landmark longitudinal studies examining how ADHD in girls affects academic achievement, self-esteem, mental health, and relationships over time. Dr. Hinshaw is widely known for helping shift the field away from male-centric ADHD models and for challenging the stigma around neurodevelopmental differences.
He is the author of several influential books, including Straight Talk about ADHD in Girls and Another Kind of Madness—a family memoir on overcoming the silence around mental and neurodevelopmental conditions illness. Steve is a frequent speaker on and advocate for the importance of early understanding, accurate identification, and compassionate support.
Looking for a school that understands your daughter?
Not an application. A real Many families discover The Craig School after years of wondering why a bright, capable student is struggling. Our team understands the unique ways ADHD, executive functioning challenges, autism spectrum profiles, and related learning differences can present in girls.
If you're exploring new educational options for your child, we'd be happy to be your first conversation.
