Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD):

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), originally called hyperkinetic reaction of childhood, renamed in 1980 as attention deficit disorder (ADD) with or without hyperactivity, and ADD was officially dropped in 1987: ADHD is a complex, potentially debilitating neuro- developmental disorder defined by pervasive and persistent behaviors. Difficulties are related to common cognitive control (executive functioning/EF) challenges with attention, organization, time management, decision-making, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. ADHD affects 11% of children and 5% of adults in the U.S. (4 million schoolchildren). Longitudinal studies reveal most symptoms continue into adulthood and show adverse outcomes: academic underachievement, increased high school/college dropout rates, earlier/riskier sexual activity, dysfunctional relationships/social functioning, lower overall socioeconomic status, poor work histories, and less secure employment than their peers. Untreated, ADHD can lead to poor self-esteem and self-worth, sensitivity towards criticism, and increased self-criticism. Three main types:

• Combined type is most common—60% of clinical cases—where both inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity are present, as well as inattention and distractibility. Many first show ADHD symptoms in early childhood, from age 4 to nearly all cases by ages 14-16.
• Predominantly hyperactive type, recognized in 1994, shows impulsive/hyperactive behavior, but not inattentiveness. A child moves constantly, excessively fidgets, taps, or talks. Adults are restless or wear out others with constant activity. Up to 90% of cases are rediagnosed as combined type in 3-5 years—possibly a precursor to combined type.
• Predominantly inattentive type, recognized in 1980, includes being easily distracted, trouble paying attention to details, organizing or finishing tasks, and forgetting routine chores—without excessive activity levels or poor impulse control. 30% of cases are milder forms of combined type.
• Sluggish cognitive tempo (SCT), in up to half of predominately inattentive type cases, appears to be a different form of attention problem.