Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Excerpt

According to the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, the primary feature of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a consistent “pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development” (American Psychiatric Association 2013, 61). The symptomatic presentation of ADHD varies, and the condition may be expressed in predominately inattentive symptoms, predominately hyperactive-impulsive symptoms, or a combination of both. The difficulties associated with ADHD may impact academic, occupational, social, and family functioning. ADHD is classified as a neurodevelopmental disorder with genetic and neurological factors as the primary etiologies. These genetic and neurological factors are believed to interact with environmental, psychosocial, and learning factors to affect the course and presentation of ADHD (Barkley 2014).