Frecuencia de los síntomas del trastorno por déficit de atención e hiperactividad en estudiantes de secundaria en una Institución Pública

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with high prevalence in childhood and significant consequences for academic performance and mental health. In Colombia, research reveals gaps in knowledge, especially within the public educational system. The objective of this study was to determine the frequency of symptoms compatible with ADHD in secondary school students attending a public institution in Armenia, Quindío. A mixed-methods study was conducted with 120 students aged 10 to 14 years. Data were collected through surveys applied to parents or guardians via Google Forms and in-person interviews. The instrument was based on DSM-5 diagnostic criteria. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used. Results showed that 20.83% of students presented symptoms consistent with ADHD, with the inattentive subtype being the most common (72%). Only 24% had a confirmed diagnosis. A significant association between gender and symptom type was found (p <0.05). This study highlights the utility of combining quantitative and qualitative methods to comprehensively understand ADHD symptoms and the perceptual biases and knowledge gaps among the educational community