Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a condition characterized by inattention and/or impulsivity and hyperactivity that begins in children prior to the age of seven. Their inattention leads to daydreaming, distractibility, and difficulties sustaining effort on a single task for a prolonged period of time. Their impulsivity disrupts classrooms and creates problems with peers, as they blurt out answers, interrupt others, or shift from schoolwork to inappropriate activities. Their hyperactivity is frustrating to those around them and poorly tolerated at school. Children with ADHD show academic underachievement and conduct problems. As they grow older, they are at risk for low self-esteem, poor peer relationships, conflict with parents, delinquency, smoking, and substance abuse.

Course, Prevalence, and Treatment

Although the longitudinal course of this condition and its prevalence in adulthood have been sources of controversy, a growing literature has documented the persistence of...