A nurse is assessing an adolescent client who has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

Choice A reason: Emotional numbing is more commonly associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depressive disorders rather than ADHD. ADHD is characterized by hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity, not emotional blunting. Choice B reason: Elevated mood is typically seen in bipolar disorder during manic episodes. ADHD does not present with sustained elevated mood; instead, it involves distractibility, restlessness, and impulsive behavior. Choice C reason: Impulsivity is a hallmark symptom of ADHD. Adolescents with ADHD often act without considering consequences, interrupt conversations, and struggle with self-control. This symptom directly aligns with the diagnostic criteria for ADHD. Choice D reason: Anxiety can co-occur with ADHD but is not a defining feature. While some adolescents with ADHD may experience anxiety due to difficulties in school or social situations, it is not a primary symptom of the disorder.