ADHD and Autism Overview

A collection of flashcards covering key concepts related to ADHD and autism based on lecture notes.

ADHD

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.

Relative Age Effect

The phenomenon where younger children in a school cohort are more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD due to developmental immaturity rather than genuine psychopathology.

Gender Prejudice in ADHD Diagnosis

The tendency for boys to be diagnosed with ADHD more frequently than girls, often based on differences in symptom presentation.

Cultural Stigma

The social stigma associated with mental health conditions, which can affect the likelihood of individuals from certain ethnic backgrounds seeking ADHD diagnosis and treatment.

Biopsychosocial Model

A model that considers biological, psychological, and social factors in understanding health and illness, applicable in understanding ADHD over and under diagnosis.

Under-diagnosis

The situation where certain populations, such as ethnic minorities or girls, are less likely to receive diagnosis and treatment for ADHD despite exhibiting symptoms.

Neurodevelopmental Abnormalities

Abnormal brain development found in individuals with ADHD, including delayed cortical maturation.

Clinical Heterogeneity

The variation in symptoms and severity of autism spectrum disorder, indicating that individuals may present differently despite having the same diagnosis.

DSM Diagnostic Criteria for Autism

Two main domains: chronic difficulties in social communication and interaction, and restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior or interests.

Heritability of Autism

The concept that genetics play a significant role in the likelihood of developing autism, with twin studies indicating a heritability rate of over 80%.

Longitudinal Studies

Research studies that observe the same subjects over long periods to capture changes and variations in development, particularly relevant in understanding autism.

Comorbid Conditions

The presence of additional conditions such as anxiety or ADHD alongside autism, complicating the clinical picture and diagnosis.

Cognitive Characteristics of Autism

Varied cognitive profiles among individuals with autism, with some exhibiting intellectual disabilities while others have average or above-average intelligence.

Environmental Risk Factors for Autism

Factors such as prenatal exposure to infections or advanced parental age that can increase the risk of developing autism.

Clinical Bias in Treatment

The influence of clinician bias on diagnostic practices, potentially leading to over-diagnosis in certain groups and under-diagnosis in others.

Developmental Trajectories

The paths individuals take in development, which can affect the manifestation of symptoms, particularly in ADHD and autism.