INFO_ADHD_DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA

Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

 

This is a highly prevalent and controversial condition, and by in large it is a disorder that STARTS in childhood and manifests with classic symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It has been called different things over the years – ‘attention deficit disorder (ADD), hyperactivity, hyperkinesis, hyperkinetic syndrome, minimal brain dysfunction’.

The DSM5 criteria are as follows:

  1. A persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development, as characterized by (1) and/or (2):
    1. Inattention (at LEAST 6 of the following symptoms; inappropriate for developmental level)
      1. Often fails to given close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, at work, or during other activities
      2. Often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities
      3. Often does not seem to listen to when spoken to directly
      4. Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace
      5. Often has difficulty organizing tasks and activities
      6. Often loses things necessary for tasks or activities
      7. Is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli
      8. viii.Is often forgetful in daily activities
    2. Hyperactivity and impulsivity (at LEAST 6 of the following symptoms, which are inconsistent with developmental level)
      1. Often fidgets with or tops hands or feet or squirms in seat
      2. Often leaves seat in situation when remaining seated is expected
      3. Often runs about or climbs in situations where it is inappropriate
      4. Often unable to play or engage in leisure activities quietly
      5. Is often “on the go” as if “driven by a motor”
      6. Often talks excessively
      7. Often blurts out an answer before  question has been completed
      8. viii.Often has difficulty waiting his or her turn
      9. Often interrupts or intrudes on others
  2. Several inattentive or hyperactive were present before age of 12 years
  3. Several inattentive or hyperactive symptoms are present in at LEAST 2 different settings (i.e. school, home, work)
  4. THERE IS CLEAR EVIDENCE THAT SYMPTOMS ARE “interfering with social, academic, occupational” functioning.
  5. Symptoms are not occurring amidst another psychotic syndrome.

The point about ‘developmental level’ is important as it is ‘normal’ for a child younger than 5 to basically show the above symptoms. However because that is a phase of brain development where the frontal network are still poorly formed, it makes sense that children will have a tough time doing ‘executive functioning’ associated with a fully developed/mature PFC (effective decision making, predicting of consequences, multi-step goal oriented behavior, delayed gratification, etc).