Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by problems with attention, excessive activity, or difficulty controlling behavior which is not appropriate for a person's age.
Pronunciation
The term is pronounced as /əˈtɛnʃən ˈdɪfɪsɪt haɪpərækˈtɪvɪti dɪsˈɔːrdər/.
Etymology
The term "Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder" is derived from the main characteristics of the disorder. "Attention deficit" refers to the inability to sustain attention, "hyperactivity" refers to excessive and non-productive motor activity, and "disorder" indicates a pattern of behavioral or physical symptoms that impact multiple life areas.
Symptoms
ADHD symptoms include difficulty staying focused and paying attention, difficulty controlling behavior, and hyperactivity (over-activity). These symptoms can interfere with a person's ability to function at school and at home.
Related Terms
- Hyperactivity: A state of excessive activity that may be manifested by symptoms such as fidgeting, jumpiness, nervousness, or excessive movement. It is often accompanied by difficulty concentrating or focusing on a task.
- Inattention: The inability to focus attention or concentrate on a specific task.
- Impulsivity: A tendency to act on a whim, displaying behavior characterized by little or no forethought, reflection, or consideration of the consequences.
- Neurodevelopmental disorder: Any of a group of conditions with onset in the developmental period. The disorders typically manifest early in development, often before the child enters grade school, and are characterized by developmental deficits that produce impairments of personal, social, academic, or occupational functioning.
See Also
- ADHD management
- ADHD predominantly inattentive
- ADHD predominantly hyperactive-impulsive
- ADHD combined type
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