Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurobiological condition and the most commonly diagnosed behavioral disorder of childhood. Primary symptoms include developmentally inappropriate levels of attention (inattention), hyperactivity, and impulsivity that appear before the age of 7 years, persist longer than 6 consecutive months, and create problems in multiple settings (e.g., home, school, peer groups). Characteristics of inattention include difficulty sustaining concentration, carelessness, difficulty organizing and completing tasks correctly, excessive forgetfulness and loss of items, reluctance or failure to complete tasks, and high distractibility. Characteristics of hyperactivity include excessive physical movement, restlessness, and excessive talking. Characteristics of impulsivity include an inability to inhibit behavior, which interferes with delayed gratification and the ability to stop and think before behaving or reacting.

Not all symptoms are required for ...