What is the common gender ratio for the diagnosis of ADHD?

The common gender ratio for the diagnosis of ADHD is typically reported as favoring boys over girls, with a ratio often cited around 3:1 or even higher in some studies. This means that for every girl diagnosed with ADHD, there are approximately three boys diagnosed. This disparity is thought to be influenced by several factors including differences in how symptoms manifest and are perceived in boys and girls, potential biases in diagnosis and referral patterns, and varying levels of socialization that may lead to differences in behavior.

Boys are more likely to exhibit hyperactive and impulsive behaviors, which are more overt and recognizable, leading to more frequent diagnoses. On the other hand, girls may demonstrate more inattentive symptoms, which can be subtler and less disruptive, potentially leading to underdiagnosis.

The other options suggest a ratio that does not align with current research findings regarding ADHD prevalence. An equal ratio suggests no significant gender difference, which doesn't reflect the substantial evidence of greater diagnosis in boys. Similarly, the ratios favoring girls would imply a reversal of the established trend. Therefore, the ratio of 3:1 in favor of boys accurately represents the prevailing understanding within the field.