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Definition: Attention deficit/hyperactive disorder (ADHD). A neurobiological condition characterized by developmentally inappropriate level of attention, concentration, activity, distractability, and impulsivity. ADHD is a diagnosis applied to both children and adults who consistently display certain characteristic behaviors over a period of time.

Common Features:*poor sustained attention to tasks, distractability*excessive activity and physical restlessness, hyperactivity *impaired impulse control and delay of gratification, impulsivity

There are three sub-categories of attention deficit disorder: Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Combined Type Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Predominantly Inattentive Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Predominantly Hyperactive or Impulsive

Diagnostic Criteria dor Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder:

Inattention: often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes *often has difficulty sustaining attention to tasks*often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly*often fails to follow instructions carefully and completely*often has difficulty organizing tasks *often loses things necessary for task or activities*often forgetful in daily activities*ioften easily distracted by outside stimuli

Hyperactivity: often fidgeting with hands or feet, or squirming*often leaves seat in classroom or in other situations in which remaining seated is expected*often talks excessively*often "on the go"*often has difficulty engaging in leisure activities quietly*often running or climbing excessively at times where it is inappropriate

Impulsivity: often blurts out answers before hearing the whole question*often has difficulty awaiting turn*often interrupts others or intrudes on others

Source: According to the DSM-IV (the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition)