Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

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Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Overview

Individuals vary greatly in activity level and attentiveness. Every child may demonstrate inattentiveness, impulsivity and high activity levels as a normal part of childhood, especially with acute stress situations. Children and adolescents with ADHD exhibit a level of over-activity, inattention, and/or impulsivity that is persistent and severe and interferes with relationships, learning, and/or leisure activities. Some children are inattentive and may appear to daydream and under-perform in school. Other children are impulsive, hyperactive and demonstrate unsafe or hard-to-control behaviors. The symptoms occur in many different settings and over a long period of time, and the diagnosis frequently occurs with related problems, such as learning disabilities, tic disorders, and problems with coordination.

ADHD affects 3-10% of children and 1-6% of adults in the United States. The cause is unknown. Research suggests genetic, biologic and environmental factors all contribute. In some cases a specific pre-disposing reason can be found. For example, ADHD has been seen with brain infections (encephalitis), prenatal exposure to alcohol, after a traumatic brain injury, and with some genetic syndromes such as Fragile X.

Primary Reviewers ADHD Section
Samuel Zinner, MD, FAAP, Developmental Pediatrician

Katherine TeKolste, MD, FAAP, Developmental Pediatrician

Additional contributors
Kate Orville, MPH
Margaret Jahn, ARNP

Other ADHD Pages

Clinical Care Guidelines
Provider-Focused Information
Provider Forms and Tools
Family-Focused Information and Tools
For Help Finding Local Services