The Nature and Characteristics of Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Abstract:

This article is an introduction to the syndrome of Attention-deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), commonly known as childhood hyperactivity. It is intended as a brief review of the current research on the basic characteristics of the disorder. After reviewing a history of the many ways in which ADHD has been defined, a critique of the most recent classification system is given. A major criticism of the current definition is that it ignores very important distinctions among the attention deficit disorders, such as distinguishing between children with and without co-occurring hyperactivity. Also, a discussion of the primary symptoms of the disorder and associated problems in adjustment is provided. The article then concludes with a summary of the research on the families of children with ADHD, particularly as it relates to our understanding of the etiology of the disorder.

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Notes on contributors

Paul J. Frick

Paul J. Frick, PhD, received his doctorate from the University of Georgia in 1990. He is currently Assistant Professor of Psychology at The University of Alabama. Research interests include the assessment and classification of childhood behavior disorders and familial influences on the development of childhood behavior problems.

Benjamin B. Lahey

Benjamin B. Lahey, PhD, is currently Professor of Psychiatry and Psychology, Director of Research in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, at the University of Miami School of Medicine. He has extensively published in several areas related to childhood psychopathology, most recently on biological correlates to behavior disorders.