Abstract
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a psychiatric and behavioral disorder marked by chronic inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development. This disorder is caused by many dysfunctions in the brain especially in the prefrontal cortex. To date, numerous studies have attempted to unravel the biological pathways behind ADHD. Many environmental risk factors have been identified including lead exposure and prenatal alcohol and tobacco exposure. Specific mutations in genes affecting dopamine and norepinephrine release are also under investigation. Moreover, around three thousand papers have been published showing that ADHD is due to an abnormal dopamine and norepinephrine neurotransmitters secretion in the prefrontal cortex (PFC). This paper aims to provide an updated review of the biological causes of ADHD with an unprecedented focus on different cellular pathways involving catecholamine secretion in the prefrontal cortex. A well rounded and comprehensive review of the etiology of ADHD would prevent its misdiagnosis by health professionals and consequently restrict its malpractice by the use of unnecessary treatments and medications. The ADHD controversy still remains: a disorder or a fraud?
Highlights
ADHD is a behavioral condition characterized by a short attention span; it can be accompanied by hyperactivity (Barkley, 1981)
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a psychiatric and behavioral disorder marked by chronic inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder abbreviated as ADHD is a brain disorder marked by an inability to maintain attention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that disrupt functioning or development (Biederman, 1998)
Summary
ADHD is a behavioral condition characterized by a short attention span; it can be accompanied by hyperactivity (Barkley, 1981). The percentage of children diagnosed with ADHD increased over the last few years by 10%, especially in the United States, other studies suggest that the worldwide prevalence of ADHD is between 8% and 12% (Pediatrics, 2000). This disorder is mostly diagnosed in school-aged children between 5 and 17 years of age, and its prevalence is 3 to 5 times more common in boys than girls. ADHD in children may lead to academic-social difficulties and challenges: their inattentive behavior prevents them from receiving and processing information properly and following instructions becomes challenging due their impulsive conduct (Association, 1980). The disorder has different symptoms and causes which are rooted in a neuro-chemical dysfunction in the brain
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
