Is ADHD a real disorder, or just a label for bad behaviour?
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is real. It is the commonest developmental disorder in children. It is defined as a persistent pattern of inattention, hyperactive and impulsive behaviour that is more frequent and severe than is typically observed in individuals at a similar level of development. The symptoms cause problems for children at home and school. Children with ADHD may have different functional difficulties, but all share the feature of poorly sustained attention. Some are extremely impulsive, some aggressive, others quiet and restless. Many have low self-esteem. Commonly associated problems (comorbidities) include language disorders, anxiety, defiant behaviour, fine motor and coordination difficulties and learning disabilities. ADHD can be highly disruptive to families and result in academic underachievement and social isolation. Individuals with ADHD are at increased risk of a range of adverse long term outcomes in adolescence and adulthood..
