Either (1) or (2)

1. Inattention: six (or more) of the following symptoms of inattention have persisted for at least 6 months to a degree that is maladaptive and inconsistent with developmental level:

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

• often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities

• often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly

• 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)

• often has difficulty organizing tasks and activities

• often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort (such as schoolwork or homework)

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

• is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli

• is often forgetful in daily activities

1. Hyperactivity-impulsivity: six (or more) of the following symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity have persisted for at least 6 months to a degree that is maladaptive and inconsistent with developmental level:

Hyperactivity:

• often fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat
• often leaves seat in classroom or in other situations in which remaining seated is expected
• often runs about or climbs excessively in situations in which it is inappropriate (in adolescents or adults, may be limited to subjective feelings of restlessness)
• often has difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly
• is often "on the go" or often acts as if "driven by a motor"
• often talks excessively

Impulsivity:

• often blurts out answers before questions have been completed.
• often has difficulty awaiting turn.
• often interrupts or intrudes on others (butts into conversations/games.)

Types:

• Attention Deficit Disorder, Combined Type: if both criteria 1 and 2 are met for the past six months.
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Predominantly Inattentive Type: if criterion 1 is met but criterion 2 is not met for the last six months.
• Attention deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Predominantly Hyperactive, Impulsive Type: if criterion 2 is met but criterion 2 is met but criterion 1 is not met for the last six months.
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Not Otherwise Specified. This category is for disorders with prominent symptoms of inattention or hyperactivity-impulsivity that do not meet criteria for Attention Deficit

next: Getting an ADHD Diagnosis for Your Child