ADHD and Autism

Question 1

ADHD is frequently associated with the following comorbid psychiatric disorders:

Answer 1

Oppositional defiant disorder
Conduct disorder
Depression
Anxiety disorder
Learning disabilities

Question 2

Major neurotransmitters involved in ADHD

Answer 2

dopamine (located in frontal lobe) and norepinephrine

Question 3

What is different about the brain function of those with ADHD?

Answer 3

brain imaging reveals decreased activation in the areas of the basal ganglion and anterior frontal lobe.
increase in dopamine transporter activity thus clearing dopamine from the synapse too quickly
The dopamine imbalance allows an inappropriate increase in norepinephrine activity

Question 4

ADHD diagnostic criteria

Answer 4

Need 6 or more symptoms of inattention OR hyperactivity/impulsivity
5 or more for age 17 and older
Negatively impacts social and academic or occupational activities
Symptoms developed prior to age 12
Symptoms present in 2 or more settings
Symptoms present for at least 6 months
Symptoms are not better explained by other psychiatric disorder(s)

Question 5

DSM-5 Autism spectrum disorder Levels

Answer 5

Level 1 “Requiring support”
Level 2 “Requiring substantial support”
Level 3 “Requiring very substantial support”