Weber- ADHD Flashcards
ADHD is characterized by what three things? When is it usually diagnosed?
- Hyperactivity
- Impulsivity
- Inattention
Childhood
What are early clinical features of ADHD?
In infancy:
- sensitive to noise, light, T
- very active, sleep little, increased crying
- explosively irritable
- emotionally labile
What are features of ADHD in preschool?
Diagnosis is controversial
What are clinical features of ADHD?
- Disorder of executive function
- disorder of self-regulation
- general coordination deficit
- disorders of memory and thinking
- specific learning disabilities
- disorders of speech and hearing
What are features commonly associated w/ ADHD?
Neurological soft signs (clumsiness)
non-specific learning disabilities
low self esteem
poor socialization- blurting!
What is the prevalence of ADHD?
5% in children, 3-4% adults
> males
It is the most commonly treated childhood disorder.
What parts of the brain are involved w/ ADHD?
Prefrontal cortex
Basal ganglia
Cerebellum
What does the brain of a child w/ ADHD look like?
Prefrontal cortex is delayed by 2-3 years and shows reduced white matter volume. Volume of the cerebellum and basal ganglia is also reduced.
How do NT relate to ADHD?
NE and DA are in low quantities.
NE- improves attention (On-task behavior/cognition
DA- dampens nose and increases inhibition and executive operations
What are the criteria for diagnosing ADHD?
If 6 or more of 18 sx have persisted for at least 6 months to a degree that is inconsistent w/ development and directly impacts social/academic activities:
- Inattention
- Hyperactivity
- Impulsivity
What is the etiology of ADHD?
Unknown!
- Family hx increases chance of ADHD in children by 4-8%
- Obstetrical problems
- DA transporter/receptor gene
What are early predictors of ADHD?
- Intrusive parenting styles
- Problem solving–parents get mad when child can’t solve problem
*These are more predictive of ADHD than temperament. Parents that can’t modulate mood> children that can’t modulate mood
What other factors may affect ADHD?
Lack of sleep Light from electronics Lack of exercise--brain on exercise looks like brain on Adderall School curriculum More sports in school Food allergy
What is the prevalence of ADHD in adults?
3-4%
M=F
What are sx commonly associated w/ adult ADHD?
procrastination low frustration tolerance mood lability and sense of failure low self esteem impaired social skills relationship difficulties
