diagnosis

Attention Deficit Disorder Diagnosis

DSM IV CRITERIA

Attention Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorders

A. Either (1) or (2)

(1) Inattention: At least six of the following symptoms of inattention have persisted for at least six months to a degree that is maladaptive and inconsistent with developmental level:

 

(a) often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities

(b) often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities

(c) often does not seem to listen to what is being said to him or her

(d) often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace (not due to oppositional behavior or failure to understand instructions)

(e) often has difficulties organizing tasks and activities

(f) often avoids, expresses reluctance about, or has difficulties engaging in tasks that require sustained mental effort (such as schoolwork or homework)

(g) often loses things necessary for tasks or activities (e.g. school assignments, pencils, books, tools, or toys)

(h) is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli

(I) often forgetful in daily activities

(2) Hyperactivity - Impulsivity: At least five of the following symptoms of hyperactivity - impulsivity have persisted for at least six months to a degree that is maladaptive and inconsistent with developmental level:

Hyperactivity

(a) often fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat

(b) leaves seat in classroom or in other situations in which remaining seated is expected

(c) often runs about or climbs excessively in situations where it is inappropriate (in adolescents or adults, may be limited to subjective feelings of restlessness)

(d) often has difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly

(e) is always "on the go" or acts as if "driven by a motor"

(f) often talks excessively

Impulsivity

(g) often blurts out answers to questions before the questions have been completed

(h) often has difficulty waiting in lines or awaiting turn in games or group situations

(I) often interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into others' conversations or games)

 

B. Some symptoms that caused impairment were present before age seven.

C. Some symptoms that cause impairment are present in two or more settings (e.g., at school, work, and at home).

D. There must be clear evidence of clinically significant impairment in social, academic, or occupational functioning.

E. Does not occur exclusively during the course of a Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Schizophrenia or other Psychotic Disorder, and is not better accounted for by Mood Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, Dissociative Disorder, or a Personality Disorder.

top | next | table of contents

home | about me | diagnosis | behaviors | faqs | personal stories | parenting
education | workplace | articles | meds | humor | resources | | send page