Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder affects between 3 and 7 percent of school-aged children, according to the DSM-IV, and is considered to be one of the most common disorders affecting children. To receive a diagnosis of ADHD, children must not only show certain symptoms before the age of 7, but these symptoms need to have caused some impairment in functioning in at least two settings, such as school and home. Symptoms are often complicated by the existence of other conditions, related to ADHD.
Inattention
To meet the diagnostic criteria for ADHD, an individual must exhibit six or more symptoms of inattention for at least six months. The symptoms of inattention are: frequent, careless mistakes; difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play; not appearing to listen when spoken to; poor follow-through or completion of chores, school work, or work duties; disorganization; avoidance of tasks that require sustained attention; often losing belongings; being easily distracted and forgetful.
Hyperactivity and Impulsivity
Six or more of the following symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity are required for a diagnosis of ADHD: fidgetiness; difficulty remaining seated when necessary; inappropriate running and climbing; difficulty in quietly engaging in leisure activities; excessive movement; and excessive talking.
The symptoms of impulsivity are: prematurely blurting out answers to questions; difficulty awaiting turns; and frequent interruption or intrusion upon others--for instance, butting into conversations.
Conditions Commonly Associated With ADHD
Many people who deal with ADHD also have symptoms of other conditions, which at times overlap with the symptoms of ADHD. Examples of such conditions include anxiety disorders; depression; behavioral problems, such as oppositional defiant disorder or conduct disorder; and learning disorders.
If a condition is related to ADHD, then the symptoms of that condition should decreased once the ADHD is effectively managed. For example, a child is diagnosed with ADHD and has marked difficulties focusing in school and following directions. He is then reprimanded for this behavior, and his repeated violation of classroom rules and expectations may result in a pattern of behavioral problems. However, once his ADHD symptoms have been addressed and managed, he is able to sit still and conform to the rules of the classroom, and his behavioral problems may also diminish or disappear altogether.
If a condition is considered to be independent of ADHD, then it will need to be addressed as a separate issue. For instance, a child may have both ADHD and a learning disorder. While each condition may contribute to the other, each condition will need to be addressed separately. A child with a learning disorder may have increased difficulty with her school work because she is unable to sustain attention due to her ADHD symptoms; but she will continue to experience learning problems even after her ADHD symptoms are effectively managed.
It is important to seek an evaluation from a health provider to assess for symptoms of ADHD and any other conditions, in order to receive the appropriate treatment.
References
- "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders -- Fourth Edition -- Text Revision"; American Psychiatric Association; 2000
- Additude Magazine; Diagnosing Related Conditions in ADHD Children and Adults
- National Institute of Mental Health; Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
