ADHD

DSM-5 (American Psychiatric Association 2013) provides the diagnostic criteria for ADHD,
which include inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity, and a combination of the two.

the observed behaviors should meet the following criteria:

• Display a persistent pattern for at least 6 months that significantly interferes with
functioning or development
• Observed in two or more settings (e.g., at home, school, work; with friends or relatives;
and in other activities)
• Several of the symptoms were present before the age of 12 years.
• The behaviors are not resulting from other disorders (e.g., schizophrenia, anxiety
disorder, personality disorder, etc.)

Signs of ADHD

• Does not pay attention to details and works in a haphazard manner resulting in careless
mistakes (e.g., school tasks, at work, in other activities)
• Finds it difficult to sustain attention in tasks
• Easily distracted and sidetracked by extraneous stimuli
• Often does not follow through on instruction and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in
the workplace.
• Appears not to listen or distracted when spoken to directly
• Has difficulty following instructions resulting in unfinished work
• Shows a tendency to be forgetful in daily tasks and routines
• Has problems in organizing tasks and activities
• Tends to lose things that are needed for schoolwork and other activities

Hyperactivity and Impulsivity

• Often restless and fidgety and cannot seem to stay still while sitting down
• Often stands from seat to roam around the room
• Often runs around or climbs in situations when sitting is required
• Often rather talkative, interrupts in conversations, and blurts responses
• Finds it difficult to wait for one's turn in tasks and activities
• Impulsive with words and actions
• May struggle in following instructions and rushes through tasks