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Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Updated on Tuesday, October 23, 2007
ADHD is one of the most common neurobehavioral disorders of childhood. It is characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity that often results in substantial functional impairment for the child. CDC estimates 4.4 million youth ages 4-17 have been diagnosed with ADHD by a healthcare professional and a disproportionate diagnosis statistic four times more likely in boys. The symptoms of ADHD make getting through the school day as well as forming typical peer relationships extremely challenging for the child and very frustrating for the caregiver.
ADHD is diagnosed according to the criteria set forth from the Diagnostic & Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR). ADHD symptoms are divided into two groups: symptoms of inattention and symptoms of hyperactivity/impulsivity. A diagnosis of ADHD requires a comprehensive evaluation and should only be made by a qualified health care provider.
A common misconception made by parents and teachers is that there is a test that can test and confirm a diagnosis in a child. Although the DSM-IV specifies what the diagnostic criteria for ADHD are, it provides no guidelines for deciding whether these criteria are met. An accurate diagnosis must take into account other subjective variables, such the length of time the symptoms have persisted, whether or not they cause clinically significant impairment in academic, social, or occupational functioning, and if the symptoms can be better accounted for by another psychiatric condition.
An ADHD diagnosis will often vary from one health care provider to the next, leaving parents confused and frustrated. However, the children are the ones who truly suffer. Many will be stuck with an inaccurate label that will dramatically alter the way the world interacts with them as well as prescribed unnecessary medication that may in fact do more harm than good. Others, will not recieve a definitive diagnosis and thus, the help they need. Parents are starting to shift their focus from searching out the definitive ADHD diagnosis and towards seeking treatment.
