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Chapter 8
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity
Disorder (ADHD)
Description and History
Description
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) describes children who display persistent age-
inappropriate symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that are sufficient to cause
impairment in major life activities
The primary symptoms of ADHD are that these children are inattentive, hyperactive, and
impulsive
ADHD has no distinct physical symptoms; it can only be identified by characteristic behaviours
that vary considerably. ADHD has become a blanket term used to describe several different
behavioural patterns that likely have different causes
Behaviour of children with ADHD is puzzling and contradictory. Rash and disorganised
behaviours are a constant source of stress for many involved, including the child
o Inconsistencies cause others to believe that the child could do better if they tried harder or
were more firmly limited. However, the increased efforts and stricter rules usually don’t
help, because most children with ADHD are already trying hard, and want to do well but
are held back by their limited self-control
Feelings of frustration, being different, not fitting in, and hopelessness may overwhelm the child
Core Characteristics
ADHD is included in DSM-V as a neurodevelopmental disorder because it has an early onset and
persistent course, is associated with lasting alterations in neural development, and is often
accompanied by subtle delays and problems in language, motor, and social development that
overlap with other ND disorders such as ASD
DSM-V Diagnostic Criteria for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
*PLEASE REFER ALSO TO THE DSM-V CRITERIA – The table below comprises only that
which is provided in the textbook
A. A persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with
functioning or development, as characterised by (1) and/or (2):
1. Inattention: Six (or more) of the following symptoms have persisted for at least 6
months to a degree that is inconsistent with developmental level and that negatively
SLK 310 Exam 2019 Abnormal Child Psychology Chapter 8 H Visser
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impacts directly on social and academic/occupational activities:
Note: The symptoms are not solely the manifestation of oppositional behaviour,
defiance, hostility, or failure to understand tasks or instructions. For older adolescents
and adults, at least give symptoms are required.
a. Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in
schoolwork, at work, or during other activities.
b. Often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities.
c. Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.
d. Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork,
chores, or duties in the workplace.
e. Often has difficulty organising tasks and activities.
f. Often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained
mental effort.
g. Often loses things necessary for tasks or activities.
h. Is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli.
i. Is often forgetful in daily activities.
2. Hyperactivity and Impulsivity: Six (or more) of the following symptoms have
persisted for at least 6 months to a degree that is inconsistent with the developmental
level and that negatively impacts directly on social and academic/occupational
activities:
Note: The symptoms are not solely a manifestation of oppositional behaviour,
defiance, hostility, or a failure to understand tasks or instructions. For older
adolescents and adults, at least five symptoms are required.
a. Often fidgets with or taps hands or feet or squirms in seat.
b. Often leaves seat in situations when remaining in seat is expected.
c. Often runs about or climbs in situations where it is inappropriate.
Note: In adolescents or adults, may be limited to feeling restless.
d. Often unable to play or engage in leisure activities quietly.
e. Is often “on the go” acting as if “driven by a motor”.
f. Often talks excessively.
g. Often blurts out answers before a question has been completed.
h. Often has difficulty waiting their turn.
i. Often interrupts or intrudes on others.
B. Several inattentive or hyperactive-impulsive symptoms were present before age 12 years.
C. Several inattentive or hyperactive-impulsive symptoms are present in two or more
settings.
D. There must be clear evidence that the symptoms interfere with, or reduce the quality of,
social, academic, or occupational functioning.
E. The symptoms do not occur exclusively during the course of schizophrenia or another
psychotic disorder and are not better explained by another mental disorder.
Specify whether:
Combined presentation: If both Criterion A1 and Criterion A2 are met for the past 6
months.
Predominantly inattentive presentation: If Criterion A1 is met but Criterion A2 is not
met for the past 6 months.
Predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation: If Criterion A2 is met but A1 is not
met for the past 6 months.
Specify if:
In partial remission: When full criteria were previously met, fewer than the full criteria
have been met for the past 6 months, and the symptoms still result in impairment in
social, academic, or occupational functioning.
Specify current severity:
Mild: Few, if any, symptoms in excess of those required to make the diagnosis are present
and symptoms result in no more than minor impairments in social or occupational
SLK 310 Exam 2019 Abnormal Child Psychology Chapter 8 H Visser
