Diagnosis

More and more children are being officially and unofficially diagnosed with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).  The Health Resources and Services Administration's National Survey of Children's Health reported that the percentage of children ages 4-17 diagnosed with ADHD increased from 7.8 percent in 2003 to 9.5 percent in 2007.¹  Based on genetic and animal studies, the pathophysiology of the disorder is likely related to dysregulation of the dopamine and norepinephrine neural pathways.²  These pathways are affected by the stimulant medications often used to treat the symptoms.  The diagnosis is typically made based on observational behavioral surveys completed by families and teachers which reflect the DSM IV criteria. 

In general, symptoms have an onset before age seven and persist for six months or longer.  They must be present in more than one setting and their severity must be beyond the individual’s developmental level.  The symptoms of two subtypes of ADHD are listed below.  The third subtype is a combination of the two.