Problem 6: Young, fast, and wild
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) → a persistent pattern of inattention
and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity. There are two subtypes: the predominantly inattentive
subtype, and the predominantly hyperactive-impulsive subtype. For each one to be diagnosed,
at least 6 of the dominant subtypes’ criteria must be present with less than 6 of the less
dominant subtypes’ criteria.
DSM5 Criteria: Inattention DSM5 Criteria: Hyperactivity-Impulsivity
Does not pay close attention to details or Does not sit still or leaves their seat at
makes careless mistakes inappropriate times
Has a difficulty in paying attention High level of fidgeting
Does not listen when spoken to directly Runs/climbs at inappropriate times
Ignores instructions Unable to engage in activities quietly
Has a difficulty in organising Talks excessively
Dislikes or avoids tasks requiring mental Blurts out answer before the question is
effort finished
Loses things that are needed for tasks Has difficulty waiting for their turn
Is easily distractable Interrupts or intrudes on others frequently
Is forgetful in daily activities
DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA:
• Inattention or hyperactivity is significantly greater than normal for the person’s
developmental stage and age.
• At least 6 of the criteria for inattention, at least 6 of the criteria for hyperactivity, for at
least 6 months.
• Symptoms were present before the age of 12 years.
• Symptoms are present in at least 2 settings.
• Symptoms reduce the quality of educational, social, or occupational ability.
• Symptoms do not occur during schizophrenia or another psychotic disorder and are not
better explained by another mental disorder.
Course of ADHD → the disorder can become apparent even in toddlers. Diagnosis
becomes easier with the onset of schooling, where learning and adjustment difficulties become
apparent. The symptoms become less pronounced during adolescence, yet, in about half of
individuals ADHD will persist into adulthood, affecting IQ and intellectual functioning.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) → a persistent pattern of inattention
and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity. There are two subtypes: the predominantly inattentive
subtype, and the predominantly hyperactive-impulsive subtype. For each one to be diagnosed,
at least 6 of the dominant subtypes’ criteria must be present with less than 6 of the less
dominant subtypes’ criteria.
DSM5 Criteria: Inattention DSM5 Criteria: Hyperactivity-Impulsivity
Does not pay close attention to details or Does not sit still or leaves their seat at
makes careless mistakes inappropriate times
Has a difficulty in paying attention High level of fidgeting
Does not listen when spoken to directly Runs/climbs at inappropriate times
Ignores instructions Unable to engage in activities quietly
Has a difficulty in organising Talks excessively
Dislikes or avoids tasks requiring mental Blurts out answer before the question is
effort finished
Loses things that are needed for tasks Has difficulty waiting for their turn
Is easily distractable Interrupts or intrudes on others frequently
Is forgetful in daily activities
DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA:
• Inattention or hyperactivity is significantly greater than normal for the person’s
developmental stage and age.
• At least 6 of the criteria for inattention, at least 6 of the criteria for hyperactivity, for at
least 6 months.
• Symptoms were present before the age of 12 years.
• Symptoms are present in at least 2 settings.
• Symptoms reduce the quality of educational, social, or occupational ability.
• Symptoms do not occur during schizophrenia or another psychotic disorder and are not
better explained by another mental disorder.
Course of ADHD → the disorder can become apparent even in toddlers. Diagnosis
becomes easier with the onset of schooling, where learning and adjustment difficulties become
apparent. The symptoms become less pronounced during adolescence, yet, in about half of
individuals ADHD will persist into adulthood, affecting IQ and intellectual functioning.
