ADHD in adults: a concept in evolution

Atten Defic Hyperact Disord. 2012 Jun;4(2):53-62. doi: 10.1007/s12402-012-0077-3. Epub 2012 May 16.

Abstract

Although attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has been recognized as a disorder affecting individuals across the life cycle since the end of the nineties, there is still considerable debate on how to conceptualize the disorder in adults, and on the best way to operationalize diagnostic criteria for this age range. In this comprehensive non-systematic review of the literature, we provide data about prevalence and presentation of ADHD in adulthood as well as discuss major problems in applying criteria developed for children in assessing adults (clinical utility, threshold of symptoms for diagnosis, full ADHD diagnosis in childhood, information source, and additional dimensions for diagnosis-executive functioning impairment and emotional impulsivity). In addition, we provide some recommendations for improving ADHD diagnostic criteria in adulthood.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Age of Onset*
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / diagnosis*
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / epidemiology*
  • Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity / psychology
  • Humans
  • Prevalence