How Children with ADHD Quickly Learn to Manipulate Their Parents—and How to Break the Cycle.
When you and your parenting partner are not aligned, your child with ADHD may quickly learn to exploit inconsistencies—sometimes intentionally, often impulsively—to avoid tasks, negotiate extra privileges, or escape consequences. This can lead to confusion, eroded trust, and reinforced negative behaviors. Inconsistent parenting not only exacerbates ADHD symptoms but also makes it harder for your child to learn self-control and emotional regulation. By understanding these dynamics and adopting evidence-based approaches, you can foster a more harmonious home environment and help your child build the skills needed for lifelong success