ADHD is an abbreviation of Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. As defined in 5th version of the American Psychiatry Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V), there are three main types of behavior in people with ADHD:
- ADHD-Predominantly Inattentive (ADHD-PI).
- ADHD-Predominantly Impulsive (ADHD PH).
- ADHD-Combined Type (ADHD-C).
A diagnosis of any of these forms of ADHD is based on the presence of multiple and persistent symptoms for at least six months. The symptoms must be present and have caused difficulties in multiple environments. For example, the symptoms must occur both at home and at school.
Symptoms of ADHD-Predominantly Inattentive
The main symptoms of ADHD-PI (ADHD-Predominantly Inattentive) are:
- Failure to pay close attention to details or careless mistakes in schoolwork, at work, or other activities.
- Difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities.
- Not seeming to listen when spoken to directly.
- Not following instructions and failing to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace.
- Difficulty organizing tasks and activities.
- Avoiding, disliking, or reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort.
- Frequently losing or misplacing things necessary for tasks and activities (e.g., school materials, pencils, books, tools).
- Easily distracted by extraneous stimuli.
- Often forgetful in daily activities.
A child up to age 16 must display six or more of the listed inattentive symptoms persisting for at least six months to be diagnosed with this condition. People 17 and older must show five or more of these symptoms persisting for at least six months.
Symptoms of ADHD-Predominantly Impulsive
The main symptoms of ADHD PH (ADHD-Predominantly Impulsive) are:
- Constant fidgeting
- Keeps tapping hands or feet
- Is unable to wait their turn
- Interrupts others while they’re talking
- Intrudes on other people’s games
- Blurts out answers
- Talks excessively
- Takes unnecessary risks
- Is unable to remain seated in situations where it’s expected, such as classrooms, libraries, and other communal environments
- Is constantly on the move for no reason
A child up to age 16 must display six or more of the listed inattentive symptoms persisting for at least six months to be diagnosed with this condition. People 17 and older must show five or more of these symptoms persisting for at least six months.
Symptoms of ADHD-Combined Type (ADHD-C)
For a diagnosis of the Combined Presentation, individuals must meet both the criteria for ADHD-PI and ADHD-PH. There is a range of different behaviors that at times appear to be inattention but at other times will show up as hyperactivity and impulsivity.
This diagnosis can only follow if sufficient symptoms of both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity were present for the past six months.
- Children under 16 must display six or more of the listed hyperactive-impulsive symptoms. People 17 and older must display five or more of these symptoms.
- Children under 16 must display six or more of the listed inattention symptoms. People 17 and older must display five or more of these symptoms.
Causes of ADHD
Scientists have not yet identified the specific causes of ADHD. There is evidence that genetics may be a contributory factor since relatives of individuals with ADHD are often also affected. There is also evidence of anatomical differences in the brains of children with ADHD in comparison to other children without the condition. Whether this is related to a cause or effect of ADHD has not yet been established. Several non-genetic factors have also been linked to the disorder, such as low birth weight or premature birth, exposure in the womb to alcohol, nicotine, and toxic chemicals, and extreme maternal stress during pregnancy.
