Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) Special Education Practice Exam

What characterizes Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?

1. Difficulty in mathematical problem-solving

2. Memory loss and inability to recall past events

3. Difficulty in sustaining attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity

4. Physical disabilities affecting motor skills

The correct answer is: Difficulty in sustaining attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity

The characteristics of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) prominently include difficulty in sustaining attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Individuals with ADHD often find it challenging to focus on tasks or stay organized, which can lead to incomplete assignments or difficulty following through on instructions. The hyperactivity component may present as excessive fidgeting, restlessness, or the inability to stay seated in calming environments. Impulsivity manifests as hasty actions without forethought, which can lead to challenges in social settings and decision-making. This combination of traits is essential for understanding ADHD and differentiating it from other disorders. The other options focus on issues that are not typically associated with ADHD. For instance, while difficulty in mathematical problem-solving or problems with memory recall may occur in some individuals, they are not defining characteristics of ADHD. Similarly, physical disabilities affecting motor skills pertain more to different types of disabilities rather than the behavioral and attentional challenges that define ADHD.