AIBU in ignoring this advice?

[SisyphusHadItEasy]

I returned to post-secondary education a couple of months ago, after more than 25 years in the working world. I find it difficult to concentrate with students chatting in the back of the classroom, and have done all that I can to avoid distraction during lectures.

An acquaintance of mine suggested that I should be tested for ADD/ADHD as I cannot concentrate. As far as I am concerned, it is the rudeness and disrespect of other students that distracts me, not a neurological challenge.

I intend to continue as I am, but should I consider their advice?

[Fruitcorner123]

It seems odd that they would suggest this based only on what you have said. Do they know you well? I would ask them exactly what prompted them to say this as they may have other reasons if they have known you for some time. If it is just this one thing then yes ignore.

[DoJo]

Does this acquaintance have any experience of the diagnosis of ADD or ADHD? Are they an expert in the field? That would be the deciding factor for me...

[HermionesRightHook]

As someone who teaches in large lectures at universities, I'm afraid that even in the 'best' places, people think it's ok to talk when the lecturer/teacher/trainer is speaking. It's incredibly rude and off-putting for the person in charge of the room.

It happened when I was a student too, mind you - doesn't mean you have ADD, etc. I would look at other symptoms to see if they're a match for you before asking for testing.

And also, complain to your lecturers - it gives them more confidence/backing to do something about it when it happens then. I'm a fan of the 'Oh, in the back there, DO YOU HAVE A QUESTION?' approach myself but it takes balls to do.

[Kitchenbound]

Ignore it. Why do you have add but they aren't just being rude and inconsiderate? Interesting perspective.

[Whatshallidonowpeople]

Have you had your hearing tested?

[PurpleDaisies]

What an odd suggestion. People talking during lectures is rude and irritating, not a sign of ADHD.

[Pengggwn]

It's hard to concentrate amidst distraction. Students who talk over the lecturer should be asked to leave, I don't understand this.

[InfiniteCurve]

I was wondering if you are distracted by the noise itself,or by the fact that you are fuming at the students who are talking for their rudeness?
Personally I am descending into Grumpy Old Womanhood and that kind of behaviour winds me right up and would distract me.if it's that way round then some kind of meditation/calmness/anger management technique would prob be a better approach than ADD assessment.