The Definition of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

THE DEFINITION OF ATTENTION-DEFICIT/HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER

Even though as parents, you are acutely aware of your child’s behavior, it is imperative to know the accepted definition of ADHD, as stated in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Here is the well-accepted and current definition:

A persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development as characterized by (1) and/or (2):

Inattention: Six (or more) of the following symptoms have persisted for at least 6 months to a degree that is inconsistent with developmental level and that negatively impacts directly on social and academic/ occupational activities:

Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in

            schoolwork, at work, or during other activities                          

often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities

often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly

often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish

schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace

often has difficulty organizing tasks and activities

often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require

sustained mental effort

often loses things necessary for tasks or activities

is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli

is often forgetful in daily activities

Hyperactivity and impulsivity: Six (or more) of the following symptoms

have persisted for at least 6 months to a degree that is inconsistent

with and that negatively impacts directly on social and academic/

occupational activities

often fidgets with or taps hands or feet or squirms in seat

often leaves seat in situations when remaining seated is expected

often runs about or climbs in situations where it is inappropriate

often unable to play or engage in leisure activities quietly

is often “on the go,” as if “driven by a motor”

often talks excessively

often blurts out an answer before a question has been completed

often has difficulty waiting his or her turn

often interrupts or intrudes on others

Several inattentive or hyperactive-impulsive symptoms were present

prior to age 12 years.

Several inattentive or hyperactive-impulsive symptoms are present in

two or more settings.

There is clear evidence that the symptoms interfere with, or reduce the

quality of, social, academic, or occupational functioning.

Specify whether:

314.01 (F90.2) Combined presentation: If both Criterion A1 (inattention)

and Criterion A2 (hyperactivity-impulsivity) are met for the past 6 months.

314.00 (F90.0) Predominantly inattentive presentation: If Criterion

A1 (inattention) is met but Criterion A2 (hyperactivity-impulsivity)

is not met for the past 6 months.

314.01 (F90.1) Predominantly hyperactive/impulsive presentation:

If Criterion A2 (hyperactivity-impulsivity is met and Criterion

A1 (inattention) is not met for the past 6 months (American

Psychiatric Association, 2013, pp. 59–60).

THE DIAGNOSTIC FEATURES

According to the American Psychiatric Association (AAP),

The essential feature of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder

(ADHD) is a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity

that interferes with functioning or development. Inattention

manifests behaviorally in ADHD as wandering off task, lacking

persistence, having difficulty sustaining focus, and being disorganized

and is not due to defiance or lack of comprehension. Hyperactivity

refers to excessive motor activity (such as a child running about) when

it is not appropriate, or excessive fidgeting, tapping, or talkativeness.

. . . Impulsivity refers to hasty actions that occur in the moment

without forethought and that have high potential for harm to the individual

. . . Impulsivity may reflect a desire for immediate rewards or an

inability to delay gratification. Impulsive behaviors may manifest as

social intrusiveness (e.g., interrupting others excessively) and/or as

making important decisions without consideration of long-term consequences

(American Psychiatric Association, 2013, p. 61).

How do the symptoms of ADHD present themselves in preschool children? Check out my next blog post!