1. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

2. Background and History
The symptoms of ADHD have been described since the 18th century
The modern definition began with George Still in 1902
1980 DSM III-The term Attention Deficit Disorder (with or without hyperactivity) was created, and was considered a Disruptive Behavior Disorder
2013 DSM V- ADHD reclassified as a Neurodevelopmental disorder
ADHD affects approximately 9% of children, 4% of adults

3. Symptoms of ADHD Daydreaming Forgetfulness Fidgeting Talking too much
Careless mistakes or taking unnecessary risks
Difficulty resisting temptation
Difficulty getting along with others
Inappropriate behaviors or outbursts

4. Diagnosing ADHD Symptoms must appear before the age of 12
Must cause significant impairment in social, academic, or occupational functioning
Must be present in more than one setting
The symptoms are not better explained by another mental disorder
Predominantly Inattentive Presentation – Inattention, Daydreaming, Forgetfulness
Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation – Impulsivity, Hyperactivity
Combined Presentation – Symptoms from both the Inattentive and Hyperactive types

5. Causes
Abnormalities in the frontal-subcortical-cerebellar systems involved in the regulation of attention, motor behavior, and inhibition
AD/HD tends to run in families - heritability is about 76% (heritability of height is 90%, schizophrenia is 80%)
Fetal exposure to alcohol, cigarettes/nicotine & environmental toxins (lead); prematurity

6. Diagnosis and Treatments
Parent and Teacher Surveys and Pediatrician Recommendations
Behavioral Therapy
Stimulants
Most effective treatment includes both therapy and medication

7. Interventions and Accommodations
Token economies, response cost procedures, and behavioral contracts, ex. Daily Report Card (DRC)
Seating child near teacher and away from children who might distract them
Model appropriate behavior
Provide students with visual cues
Post rules, schedules, and goals on the board
Positive reminders or cues for appropriate behaviors.
Structure and routines for transitions, turning in homework, asking questions, and getting supplies in class
Multisensory Curriculum
Fidget toys
Extra time for assignments and tests

8. References http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd