Adapted from ADDitude Magazine

Dealing with Cliques
Teens with ADHD may get excluded from social groups more frequently than other adolescents because of the characteristics of their disorder. They are often overanxious, talk too much, don't pay attention, and don't notice cues that other teens pick up on.

Cliques are a fact of life, and not just for teens. But for people who may not feel especially good about themselves, the prospect of belonging to a popular group becomes all the more important. They may recognize that they are different and want desperately to fit into the crowd. The danger is that if they can't get accepted by the popular groups, adolescents with ADHD may gravitate toward the only groups that will accept them. Often, they're the groups who engage in unsuitable behavior.

What helps
All teens can be "parent-deaf," or they may take your input as a put-down, so whatever you do, do it gently. And just because they say, "Oh Mom!" doesn't mean your teen hasn't heard what you said.

• Help them develop better social skills.
  Notice their behavior with their peers and suggest alternatives. For example: "I was watching you with Suzie and you didn't give her a chance to talk. I wonder if that made her feel like you weren't interested in her. You might consider whether she needs you to listen more."
  
  
• Help them build a social bridge.
  Just as activities can build a social bridge, so can objects. The right clothing or entertainment can make a difference in your teen's relationships with peers. Style may seem unimportant, but it can help your teen fit in with social groups. Even being the first one to get the latest music CD can do the trick. It's important to provide your teenager with opportunities to build social bridges.
  
  
• Make your home inviting.
  If possible, set aside a room where teens can hang out, play ping-pong and video games, watch the latest movie DVD, or just talk. Provide plenty of snacks and make yourself invisible (but not really).

What are my rights as a parent of a child with ADHD?