Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a well-researched developmental disorder characterised by deficits in sustained attention or persistence, resistance to distraction, voluntary motor inhibition, and the regulation of activity level relative to same-aged peers. The disorder affects up to 5-8 percent of the childhood population and 4-5 percent of adults. Originating in early childhood in most cases, ADHD is a relatively persistent condition with up to 80 percent of diagnosed children continuing to meet diagnostic criteria in adolescence. Recent research suggests that up to 66 percent of ADHD children will continue to have clinically significant symptoms of the disorder in adulthood. In childhood, the disorder has a substantial impact on numerous major life activities, including family functioning, social relationships, and educational success. By adolescence, up to 35-45 percent of children with ADHD are prone to conduct problems or delinquency, 15-20% to substance abuse, and 36% to failure to complete high school. In adulthood, formerly ADHD children demonstrate significantly greater impairments in employment performance and interpersonal adjustment as well as greater antisocial behaviour and associated substance dependence and abuse. (Author/publisher)
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