ADHD
EVERYTHING
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KSpotting ADHD
To diagnose the disorder, psychiatrists turn to the Diagnostic and
Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). The handbook, which
has been around since 1952, is currently in its fifth edition. But in
those 60-plus years, the DSM has flip-flopped on including both the
traditional hyperactive variety of ADHD and non-hyperactive variations,
which fly under the radar and are harder to diagnose. The most recent
edition includes not just the hyperactive subtype, but what are called
the inattentive and combination subtypes. According to the DSM, to
diagnose the disorder, the symptoms should have been noticeable in
childhood, even if some of the behavior is shed as an adult. However,
several recent studies have suggested adults may develop ADHD, too.
The Man Behind
the Curtain
Perhaps one of the biggest
mysteries still puzzling
researchers is what actually
causes ADHD. The more
scientists discover, the clearer
it is there’s no wizard behind
the curtain. Instead, they’re
focusing on the curtain itself
— and the closer they look, the
more threads appear in the
disorder’s complex tapestry.
There’s evidence genetics
are involved, as ADHD often
runs in families. Parents and
siblings of people with ADHD
are two and eight times as
likely to have the disorder.
And some researchers have
identified genes that are linked
with susceptibility to the
condition.
Other research suggests
environmental influences
could hold some sway.
Pesticides and lead have
been linked to the disorder,
as well as polychlorinated
biphenyls, or PCBs — a
group of chemicals popular
in products like paints, dyes
and plastics until they were
banned in 1979. Additionally,
other studies have found that
children who had extremely
low birth weights (average
2.6 pounds) or were born
extremely prematurely (less
than 26 weeks) are also more
likely to develop ADHD.
Overall, many scientists
seem to agree that it’s
likely these genetic and
environmental factors
collectively add up to what
we see as ADHD.
INATTENTIVE SUBTYPE:
AN INDIVIDUAL OFTEN...
- Overlooks details, makes careless
mistakes in schoolwork or work.
- Has trouble holding attention on tasks
or play activities.
- Seems not to listen when spoken to.
- Fails to follow instructions; fails to
finish schoolwork or work duties.
- Has trouble organizing tasks.
- Avoids doing tasks that require
sustained mental effort.
- Loses things needed for activities
(such as school materials, wallet,
keys).
- Is easily distracted.
- Is forgetful in daily activities.
FOR KIDS UP TO 16:
- Must exhibit six or more symptoms.
FOR EVERYONE:
- Symptoms are developmentally inappropriate.
- Several symptoms before age 12.
- Symptoms apparent in at least two settings, such as home, school or with friends.
- Symptoms negatively affect social, school or work functioning.
- Symptoms don’t fall under another mental disorder, such as depression or anxiety.
HYPERACTIVE SUBTYPE:
AN INDIVIDUAL OFTEN...
- Fidgets with or taps hands or feet;
squirms in seat.
- Leaves seat in situations when
remaining seated is expected.
- Runs or climbs when it’s
inappropriate; adolescents or adults
feel restless.
- Unable to play or take part in leisure
activities quietly.
- Is “on the go.”
- Talks excessively.
- Blurts out an answer before a
question has been completed.
- Has trouble waiting their turn.
- Interrupts or intrudes on others.
SYMPTOMS
FOR THOSE 17 AND UP:
- Must exhibit five or more symptoms.
DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA
Exposure to
certain toxins
has been linked
to ADHD.