What is ADHD?

ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) is an ongoing behavior disorder typically diagnosed at age five or six, although the symptoms have usually been observed much earlier than this age. The three key symptoms are:

• Inattention
• Hyperactivity
• Impulsivity

These symptoms typically interfere with the child's functioning in social and academic settings. The diagnostic criteria were outlined in 1994 in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health (DSM-IV; American Psychiatric Association). To meet the diagnostic criteria, these symptoms, exemplified below, must have been present for at least six months.

Inattention Symptoms in ADHD

The child often fails to give attention to details, or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities.

Inattention Symptoms in ADHD

The child often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities.

Inattention Symptoms in ADHD

The child often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.

Inattention Symptoms in ADHD

The child often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, (not due to oppositional behavior or failure to understand instructions).

An additional symptom of ADHD in adults is the lack of follow through on instructions or failure to finish duties in the workplace.

Inattention Symptoms in ADHD

The child often has difficulty organizing tasks and activities.

Inattention Symptoms in ADHD

The child often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort (such as schoolwork or homework).

Inattention Symptoms in ADHD

The child often loses things necessary for tasks or activities (for example, toys, school assignments, pencils, books, or tools).

Inattention Symptoms in ADHD

The child is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli.

Inattention Symptoms in ADHD

The child is often forgetful in daily activities.

Hyperactivity Symptoms in ADHD

The child often fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in their seat.

Hyperactivity Symptoms in ADHD

The child often leaves the seat in the classroom or in other situations in which remaining seated is expected.

Hyperactivity Symptoms in ADHD

The child often runs about or climbs excessively in situations in which it is inappropriate.

Hyperactivity Symptoms in ADHD

The child often has difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly.

Hyperactivity Symptoms in ADHD

The child often talks excessively.

Impulsivity Symptoms in ADHD

The child often blurts out answers before the questions have been completed.

Impulsivity Symptoms in ADHD

The child often experiences difficulty awaiting his or her turn.

Impulsivity Symptoms in ADHD

The child often interrupts or intrudes on others (for example, butts into conversations or games).

Early recognition is key to treatment of ADHD

One can see why there is an age limitation on these behaviors being defined as "abnormal," as the majority of them are typical of much younger children. But in the non-ADHD child, these behaviors are typically outgrown. And, of course, there are a variety of other conditions in which these symptoms occur other than ADHD. Your doctor must carry out a very detailed evaluation before the diagnosis of ADHD is made. But please don't delay! If you or your child's teachers suspect ADHD, begin the evaluation as soon as possible. Early recognition and treatment of ADHD can improve your child's chances for long-term social and academic success.

More Reading on ADHD

• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) (ADD)
• Your Guide to Childhood ADHD
• ADHD in Children
• Does Your Child Have ADHD?
• Tips for Parenting a Child with ADHD
• What is the Difference Between ADHD and ADD?
• Diagnosing ADHD
• Medical Treatment of ADHD