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ADD/ADHD, Dyslexia

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Table 1. Diagnostic Criteria for Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder

What is ADD/ADHD? According the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders (DSM), ADD is defined as follows:

A. Either (1) or (2):

(1) six (or more) of the following symptoms of inattention have persisted for at least 6 months to a degree that is maladaptive and inconsistent with developmental level:

Inattention:

• often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in

schoolwork, work, or other activities

• often has difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities

• often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly
• often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores or duties in the workplace (not due to oppositional behavior or failure to understand instructions)
• often has difficulty organizing tasks and activities
• often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort (such as schoolwork or homework)
• often loses things necessary for tasks or activities (e.g., toys, school assignments, pencils, books or tools)
• is often easily distracted by extraneous stimuli
• is often forgetful in daily activities

(2) six (or more) of the following symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity have persisted for at least 6 months to a degree that is maladaptive and inconsistent with developmental level:

Hyperactivity:

• often fidgets with hands or feet or squirms in seat
• often leaves seat in classroom or in other situations in which it is inappropriate (in adolescents or adults, may be limited to subjective feelings of restlessness)
• often has difficulty playing or engaging in leisure activities quietly
• is often "on the go" or often acts as if "driven by a motor"
• often talks excessively

Impulsivity

• often blurts out answers before questions have been completed
• often has difficulty awaiting turn
• often interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g. butts into conversations or games)

B. Some hyperactive-impulsive or inattentive symptoms that caused impairment were present before age 7 years.

C. Some impairment from the symptoms is present in two or more settings (e.g. at school [or work] and at home).

D. There must clear evidence of clinically significant impairment in social, academic or occupational functioning.

Source: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, IV, Washington, D.C., American Psychiatric Association, 1994.

We feel that while these form part of a diagnosis, they are too subjective in their nature and thus usually result in the over-prescribing of medications, often without the recommended co-therapy regime that the medication insert recommends. 

For Adults, fewer criteria are needed.  Hmmm.  Shall we drug not just the kids, but the adults too?  I think not.  First accurate testing.  Then true treatment IF it is indicated.

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