Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Epidemiology, assessment, and treatment among children, adolescents, and adults

Abstract

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that has an onset in childhood and can persist into adolescence and adulthood. ADHD is one of several behavioral and developmental disorders that are associated with impairment in functioning across the lifespan. The assessment and treatment of ADHD highlight issues that are pertinent to the management of other developmental and behavioral disorders. Similar to other developmental and behavioral disorders, the assessment of ADHD in childhood, adolescence, and adulthood is based on integrating data from multiple sources utilizing multiple methods. Treatment involves pharmacological and psychosocial approaches. A multidisciplinary approach to assessment and treatment of developmental and behavioral disorders can ensure an accurate diagnostic formulation and the provision of effective treatment.