Understanding Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

ADHD

Neurodevelopmental disorder affecting attention and behavior.

Inattention

Difficulty sustaining focus and organizing tasks.

Hyperactivity

Excessive movement and inability to stay still.

Impulsivity

Acting without thinking, interrupting others.

Functional Impairment

Decreased performance in social or academic settings.

ADHD Combined

Presence of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms.

ADHD Predominantly Inattentive

Mainly characterized by inattention symptoms.

ADHD Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive

Mainly characterized by hyperactivity and impulsivity.

Diagnosis Age

Symptoms must be present before age 12.

Prevalence in Children

7%-11% of US children diagnosed with ADHD.

Prevalence in Adults

4%-5% of US adults diagnosed with ADHD.

Etiology

Causes include genetic, environmental, and brain factors.

Genetic Influence

Siblings 5-7 times more likely to have ADHD.

Hallmark Symptoms

Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are key signs.

Associated Impairments

Includes executive function and academic underachievement.

Coexisting Conditions

80% of children may have additional disorders.

Social Determinants of Health

Conditions affecting health based on environment.

Screening Tools

Used for assessing ADHD in adults.

Severity Levels

Mild, moderate, and severe impairments in functioning.

Environmental Factors

Includes prenatal exposure and brain injuries.

Executive Function

Cognitive processes for attention and self-regulation.

Internalizing Symptoms

Anxiety and depression often hidden in ADHD.

Sleep Disturbances

Includes issues with sleep initiation and maintenance.

Developmental Coordination Disorder

Motor skill problems linked to ADHD.

Oppositional Defiant Disorder

Common coexisting condition with ADHD.

Tic Disorders

Involuntary movements or sounds often seen in ADHD.

Bipolar Disorder

Mood disorder that can coexist with ADHD.

Higher SES

Associated with better social functioning and reading ability.

ADHD Course

Lifelong disorder affecting attention and behavior.

Adult ADHD

Decreased hyperactivity; persistent attention limitations.

School Dropout Rates

Higher rates among children with ADHD.

Multimodal Approach

Combines education, medication, and therapy for treatment.

Stimulant Medications

Effective for 70-90% of ADHD patients.

Ritalin

Common stimulant medication for ADHD treatment.

Medication Side Effects

Includes decreased appetite and sleep problems.

Nonstimulant Medications

Used when stimulants are ineffective; includes Strattera.

Behavioral Therapy

Targets behavior changes through environmental adjustments.

Cognitive-Behavior Therapy

Modifies thought processes to improve behavior.

Family Therapy

Addresses family dynamics affecting ADHD treatment.

IEP

Individualized Education Program for special education needs.

Mindfulness

Enhances attention and reduces impulsivity.

Dietary Interventions

Includes gluten-free and casein-free diets.

Occupational Therapy

Focuses on improving daily living skills.

ADLs

Activities of Daily Living; essential self-care tasks.

IADLs

Instrumental Activities of Daily Living; complex tasks.

Client Factors

Includes values, beliefs, and body functions.

Performance Skills

Skills needed for effective task execution.

Performance Patterns

Habits and routines affecting daily activities.

Social Skills Building

Enhances interpersonal interactions and relationships.

Peer Coaching

Group sessions focused on specific goals.

Parent Training

Educates parents on managing ADHD behaviors.

Support Groups

Provide emotional and practical support for families.

Technological Assistance

Tools to aid learning and task completion.

Rehabilitation Act of 1973

Legislation ensuring accommodations for disabilities.

IDEA of 2004

Ensures special education services for eligible children.

Contingency Approaches

Behavioral strategies like token economies and praise.