DSM -5 DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA
For children <17 years, the DSM-5 diagnosis of ADHD requires ≥6 symptoms out of 9 of hyperactivity and impulsivity or ≥6 out of 9 symptoms of inattention. The symptoms of hyperactivity/impulsivity or inattention must:
- Occur often
- Be present in more than one setting (e.g., school and home); present across settings
- Persist for at least six months; not just situational
- e present before the age of 12 years
- Impair function in academic, social, or occupational activities
- Be excessive for the developmental level of the child
- In addition, other physical, situational, or mental health conditions that could account for the symptoms must be excluded.
Inattention
- Failure to provide close attention to detail, making careless mistakes
- Difficulty maintaining attention in play, school, or home activities
- Seems not to listen, even when directly addressed
- Fails to follow through (e.g., homework, chores, etc)
- Difficulty organizing tasks, activities, and belongings
- Avoids tasks that require consistent mental effort
- Loses objects required for tasks or activities (e.g., schoolbooks, sports equipment, etc)
- Easily distracted by irrelevant stimuli
- Forgetfulness in routine activities (e.g., homework, chores, etc)
Hyperactivity
- Excessive fidgetiness (e.g., tapping the hands or feet, squirming in seat)
- Difficulty remaining seated when sitting is required (e.g., at school, work)
- Feelings of restlessness (in adolescents) or inappropriate running around or climbing in younger children
- Difficulty playing quietly
- Difficult to keep up with, seeming to always be “on the go”
Impulsivity
- Excessive talking, limited airtime for others
- Difficulty waiting turns
- Blurting out answers too quickly or calling out
- Interrupting or intruding other conversations