Learn about the three subtypes of ADHD.

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurological condition related, in part, to the brain's chemistry and anatomy. ADHD manifests itself as a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity/impulsivity that occurs more frequently and more severely than is typically observed in people at comparable levels of development. These symptoms must occur for at least six months and have been present since before age 7.

ADHD begins in childhood and can persist into adulthood as well. While some children outgrow ADHD, about 60% continue to have symptoms into adulthood.

According to The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR), the symptoms of ADHD fall into three categories: Inattention, Hyperactivity/Impulsivity, and a combination of the two.

Inattention

A child may be exhibiting symptoms of inattention if he or she often:

• ignores details; makes careless mistakes
• has trouble sustaining attention in work or play
• does not seem to listen when directly addressed
• does not follow through on instructions; fails to finish
• has difficulty organizing tasks and activities
• avoids activities that require a sustained mental effort
• loses things he or she needs
• gets distracted by extraneous noise and activities
• is forgetful in daily activities

Because all children behave in these ways at times, only a professional can diagnose a child with ADHD.

Hyperactivity/Impulsivity

Hyperactivity

A child may be exhibiting symptoms of Hyperactivity if he or she often:

• fidgets or squirms
• has to get up from seat
• runs or climbs when he or she shouldn't
• has difficulty with quiet leisure activities
• is on the go, as if driven by a motor
• talks excessively

Impulsivity

A child may be exhibiting symptoms of Impulsivity if he or she often:

• blurts out answers before questions have been completed
• has difficulty waiting his or her turn
• interrupts or intrudes on others

Because all children behave in these ways at times, only a professional can diagnose a child with ADHD.

Is there a difference between ADD and ADHD? Read this.

Sources:

• DSM-IV-TR - The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Text Revision. Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Association.

next: ADHD: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment