Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a behavioral syndrome that is estimated to affect 3-6% of elementary and high school students It usually becomes apparent in the first few years of school, but it may go undiagnosed until adulthood.

A good description of a child with ADHD is as follows: The “ADHDer” has a million thoughts racing through his mind, forgets chores and assignments, doesn’t listen, alienates his peers, behaves impulsively, is disorganized, and drives his family crazy. Beneath it all, however, is an intelligent, creative, and well-intentioned kid (from Zipper: The Kid with ADHD).

ADHD can be more clinically and scientifically defined as a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity - impulsivity that is more frequent and severe than is typical for others at a similar level of development.

ADHD is not a new disorder. The syndrome of hyperactivity was first described in 1900. In 1960, hyperactivity was thought to be due to subtle changes in the area of the brain that control behavior. At that time, this syndrome was called “Minimal Brain Damage Syndrome”. By the 1970’s, the syndrome was no longer felt to be the result of a physical brain abnormality, but rather a behavioral problem. In the 1980’s, attentional deficits were added to the diagnosis of hyperactivity.

There is no single lab test, finding on physical exam, or psychological test that proves or disproves the diagnosis of ADHD. Rather, the diagnosis must be made as a collaborative effort between parents, physicians, teachers, and other caregivers. To make the diagnosis, physicians will often perform some combination of the following tests:

• Medical Evaluation, which may include lab tests, x-rays, or other studies
• Having parents and teachers fill out ADHD rating forms
• Comprehensive interviews with patients, family, and teachers
• Mental Status Examination
• Assessment of cognitive ability and IQ
• Reviewing school performance reports, speech, and language evaluation

The painting entitled, Child Psychology, was done by Norman Rockwell and appeared on the November 25, 1933 cover of the Saturday Evening Post.