Main Developmental Characteristics:

Disordered Attention Control

Disordered Activity Control

Disordered Impulse Control

Symptoms/Diagnostic Criteria

Doesn't finish work

Short attention span

Impulsiveness

Distractibility

Inconsistency

Behavior problems

Factors in Diagnosis

Hyperactivity can't sit still (may or may not be present)

History from parents -- May be accompanied by other learning disabilities

Inappropriate activity social problems

Genetic predisposition -- Presence in other family members

Onset before age seven

Behavior evaluations necessary by teacher, parents and child

Has lasted at least six months

Not due to other emotional causes

Psychometric (educational) testing

Evaluate learning disabilities

Intelligence vs. performance

Identify strengths and weaknesses

Exam by physician

No laboratory tests of value

Management

Home Loving, organized control

Encouragement

Stable routine, regular schedule

School Small, closed class

Mature teacher

Familiar with ADHD loving, organized control Special Ed? (Pros and Cons)

Encouragement

Flexible guidelines

Close working relationship between parent and teacher Family Counseling

Family Counseling

Educate all family members about appropriate expectations

Inappropriate behavior / Social problems